Kiwi Bio: IBS Relief Through Diet Freedom

Irritable Bowel Syndrome and the Quest for Painless Eating

Approximately one in 20 individuals experiences the challenges of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a frequently encountered condition impacting bowel function. This can manifest in a variety of symptoms, notably abdominal discomfort and difficulties with bowel movements.

A common initial approach to managing gut sensitivity involves dietary modifications, specifically avoiding certain foods. However, many associated diets prove overly restrictive, according to Anjie Liu, a co-founder of Boston-based biotechnology firm Kiwi Bio, who personally understands the difficulties of living with IBS.

The Personal Journey Behind Kiwi Bio

“Following diagnosis, I experienced stomach pain after meals and consulted a doctor, ultimately being referred to a specialist – a typical path for IBS sufferers,” Liu explained to TechCrunch. “It’s estimated that 10% to 15% of the population has IBS, yet only half receive an official diagnosis.”

This personal experience motivated Liu to collaborate with David Hachuel to create a solution enabling 40 million Americans with IBS to enjoy eating without pain. Their initial offering, FODZYME, launched in May, utilizing patent-pending enzymes to break down common digestive triggers.

Securing Seed Funding for Growth

Kiwi Bio recently announced a $1.5 million seed funding round. Investors include Y Combinator, North South Ventures, Surf Club Ventures, Acacia Venture Capital Partners, Savage Seed, and Golden founder Jude Gomila.

The Limitations of Current IBS Management

Liu, diagnosed with IBS six years ago, notes that while medication is often initially attempted, many find it insufficient. The most common alternative is the low-FODMAP diet, prescribed by around 80% of physicians.

However, she emphasizes that this diet is “extremely challenging to adhere to, leading to low compliance rates.” This often necessitates avoiding staples like garlic and onions.

FODZYME: A More Flexible Approach

For Liu, adhering to the low-FODMAP diet for nearly three years meant sacrificing enjoyment of food and social experiences. FODZYME offers a different approach, allowing users to sprinkle the powder directly onto foods – such as garlic, onions, bananas, and wheat – before consumption.

The powder form was deliberately chosen for its superior integration with food compared to capsules. “Clinical testing revealed that capsules were a less effective delivery method for enzymes,” Liu stated. “They often fail to reach the gut where they can interact with the user, whereas our powder form proved significantly more effective.”

Expanding the Product Line and Scientific Validation

Kiwi Bio is also developing a chewable version of FODZYME, as well as a supplement designed to counteract the effects of sugar alcohols. All ingredients used are recognized as safe by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Thomas Wallach, a pediatric gastroenterologist and advisor to the company, believes Kiwi Bio’s approach distinguishes it from others in the digestive health sector. He highlights their focus on a genuine therapeutic agent, rather than relying on unproven concepts or the placebo effect.

The Science Behind FODZYME

“While the placebo effect is strong in IBS, Kiwi Bio is introducing a real therapeutic agent with potential applications beyond IBS, including dysmotility and short gut syndrome,” Wallach explained via email. “This is a novel and exciting concept.”

Wallach further explained that gas exacerbates stretching in the gut, and intestinal microbiota produce gas when processing FODMAPs. The low-FODMAP diet aims to reduce gas production, with a high success rate, particularly in individuals with hypermobile joints or dysautonomia.

He also pointed out that the low-FODMAP diet can reduce fiber intake, potentially negatively impacting the microbiome. Kiwi Bio’s FODZYME acts as a “Lactaid for fiber,” enabling individuals with IBS to consume a wider range of foods.

“Fiber is ultimately beneficial, and its complete removal from the diet is unsustainable,” Wallach added. “Kiwi’s enzyme package pre-digests FODMAPs, minimizing their impact on the colon while preserving nutritional benefits and fiber intake. Their commitment to empirical validation, including in vitro testing and planned clinical trials, is particularly impressive.”

Growth and Future Plans

Kiwi Bio experienced a successful summer, participating in Y Combinator’s program and selling out of inventory twice. A 30- or 60-day supply of FODZYME is available for $39.

The company currently serves over 600 customers and is experiencing weekly growth of 18%. They have also strengthened their supply chain and added a head of growth and a community engagement manager.

The new funding will be used to expand the FODZYME product line, develop new products targeting unaddressed FODMAP groups, and support planned clinical studies.

“We realized during fundraising that Kiwi Bio doesn’t fit neatly into the categories of traditional biotech or consumer packaged goods,” Liu concluded. “We sought investors comfortable with our unique position and capable of supporting our diverse needs.”