Ineke Nugteren has transformed her background in nursing and functional medicine into a successful food business, challenging conventional approaches to sweet snacking. As founder of Nourish, she has demonstrated how indulgence, natural ingredients and nutritional functionality can come together to meet evolving consumer expectations.
Founded in 2015, Nourish began in Nugteren’s family kitchen, where she developed coconut macaroons using natural ingredients. Frustrated by the limited availability of appealing free-from snacks, she recognised an opportunity to create products that combined enjoyment with a more considered approach to nutrition.
What began as a small family enterprise has since developed into an established British snack manufacturer, supplying prominent retailers including Selfridges, Whole Foods Market and Ocado.
Transforming Healthier Sweet Snack Innovation
Under Nugteren’s leadership, Nourish has expanded beyond its original coconut macaroons into chocolate-covered brownie bars, cacao coconut cookies and other innovative sweet treats.
The company’s products emphasise plant-based ingredients, nutritional benefits and accessibility for consumers with specific dietary requirements.
A significant milestone came in 2018 when Nourish established its own SALSA-accredited production kitchen, strengthening manufacturing capabilities and supporting commercial expansion.
Innovation remains central to its development. In 2026, Nourish’s Nutty One, a chocolate-covered coconut brownie featuring almond nut butter and fibre-rich ingredients, was shortlisted in the Sweet Snacks category at the Great British Food Awards.
Championing Female Entrepreneurship and Responsibility
Nugteren’s entrepreneurial achievements have attracted industry recognition. She was named a finalist at the 2024 Great British Entrepreneur Awards and subsequently shortlisted for the 2026 Women in Food & Drink Awards.
Her commitment extends beyond commercial growth. Nourish supports the charity Water for Good, donating 10% of net profits towards improving access to clean water in underserved communities.
She also advocates flexible working, employee development and collaboration, drawing on lessons from her previous healthcare career.
Through product innovation, responsible business practices and entrepreneurial determination, Nugteren has helped demonstrate how smaller manufacturers can influence the future of sweet snacking.
