Key Takeaways
- Revelstoke’s Cronometer wins the Foodtech Frontier 25 award for its innovative nutrition-tracking app.
- The app has achieved 13 million downloads and is focusing on expansion into European markets.
- New features include photo-logging for meal tracking and voice-activated log-in, leveraging AI technology.
Recognizing Innovation in Nutrition Tracking
Cronometer, a Revelstoke-based nutrition-tracking start-up celebrating 20 years in the food technology sector, has been awarded the inaugural Foodtech Frontier 25 award. Presented by the Canadian Food Innovation Network (CFIN) in Vancouver, this award highlights companies addressing sustainability, food security, health, and supply chain efficiency. Cronometer is one of 35 recognized firms, underscoring its significance in the industry.
Founded in 2005 by CEO Aaron Davidson, Cronometer developed its app to fill a critical gap in nutrition tracking. The company’s growth has been marked by approximately 13 million downloads and an increase in staff from 20 to 65. Product team manager Brendan Benson expressed excitement about the recognition, emphasizing the team’s commitment to helping users meet their nutrition goals. Despite challenges in expanding their talent pool due to space constraints, the company continues to thrive, with plans to hire more staff.
The company recently introduced a photo-logging feature allowing users to take pictures of their meals. This feature uses AI to identify food items and their corresponding nutrients, enhancing the app’s functionality. Users can also substitute food items and receive detailed protein breakdowns of their meals, ensuring they meet their nutritional targets effectively.
Benson highlighted the importance of integrating AI while maintaining human oversight for accuracy. Future developments include a voice-activated log-in option and plans to expand into European markets, specifically in France, Germany, and the U.K.
Cronometer also offers free premium memberships to residents of Revelstoke, showing its commitment to its community roots. The company sees immense potential in the food technology sector, with Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Heath MacDonald emphasizing the significance of innovation for job creation, economic growth, and establishing Canada as a leader in foodtech.
Benson encouraged other Revelstoke start-ups to surround themselves with like-minded individuals to achieve success. Cronometer’s team is looking forward to attending the CFIN award ceremony, which celebrates companies that are pioneering innovative solutions in the rapidly evolving food industry.
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