On the brink of global success, a Geelong innovation is opening new possibilities for home cooks and professional chefs alike.
Julie Kos’s The Smoked Egg Company impressed judges so much they named it a finalist in four award categories: Innovation, Research and Development; Emerging Business – Under 3 Years; Advanced Manufacturing and Industry; and Best First Year Entry.
The company uses a patented cold-smoking technique to infuse raw eggs with a smoky flavour.
The resultant raw egg is free from impurities and ready to add a twist to recipes like mayonnaise and even Pavlova.
Ms Kos is now turning her attention to global expansion. With licensed IP in America and the Netherlands, she is confident the company can captivate customers around the world, including in the Middle East.
“If we capture one per cent of the global market we’ll be very lucky people. I think we’ll capture probably 20 or 30 per cent.
“It’s a safe egg with a flavour profile – why wouldn’t you buy it!”
Ms Kos overcame business challenges that sometimes seemed “all too hard” with strong belief in the product and the support of her husband.
“He said, ‘You’ve gone this far, you can’t stop now’,” she explains.
Entering the business awards provided an opportunity for Ms Kos to take stock of her achievements, she says.
“I’m proud of what we’ve done. We’re not there yet but I think we’re very close.”