The Peruvian startup Evand’s announced on March 23 that more than 1,400 children in the Huánuco region have improved their hemoglobin levels and overcome anemia after consuming its line of functional foods fortified with iron. The company said these products are made from local natural ingredients and are designed to address childhood anemia, which affects over 43 percent of children in the country.
This development is significant as it offers a potential solution to a widespread health problem among children. Evand’s achieved this outcome with seed capital funding provided by ProInnóvate from the Ministry of Production through the StartUp Perú competition.
Evand’s has created iron-fortified products suitable for treating anemia in infants as young as six months old. These gluten-free offerings provide vitamins, minerals, fiber, and protein to support complete nutrition at various life stages. Recently, the company expanded its portfolio to include iron- and fruit fiber-fortified dragees, an instant breakfast made from Andean grains sweetened with coconut sugar, and a pear-flavored puree. These new items join existing products such as chocolates with folic acid and nectars and purees made from banana and peach.
“Our commitment is to achieve recovery for children affected by anemia. Thanks to sales of our products, we finance this free support for families and have already helped more than 1,400 children recover in Huánuco. Seeing children who previously lacked strength now running and smiling at home is our greatest pride,” said Evelyn Ramos, founder of Evand’s.
To ensure effective intervention outcomes, Evand’s partnered with CITE Huallaga of the Institute of Production Technology (ITP) to develop a mobile application that systematically monitors beneficiaries’ hemoglobin levels. The company’s model also includes social outreach: staff conduct home visits to train families on preparing iron-rich foods, encourage hygiene practices, promote bio-garden creation, and strengthen the local economy by sourcing ingredients directly from small farmers in Huánuco.
After validating its product effectiveness in communities with high rates of anemia, Evand’s received additional funding from ProInnóvate. This will allow the company to expand production capacity and extend interventions into vulnerable populations in regions such as Ica, Pisco, and Ucayali.
