In a world where the mundane often overshadows the extraordinary, Brian Waddick and Cole Schaefer found inspiration in a familiar snack: sunflower seeds. The pair, whose friendship blossomed during their years at the University of Minnesota, decided to elevate this underappreciated dugout staple by infusing it with flavors like cinnamon churro and backyard BBQ. Their journey began in the confines of their college dorm, where they experimented with seasoning and gathered feedback from their peers. The graduate duo transformed their culinary whims into a thriving business, Smackin’, after raising $60,000 in funding from various sources, including state grants and angel investors.
Fast forward to today, and their growth trajectory is astounding. With projected revenues soaring to $20 million from a mere $2 million in the previous year, Smackin‘ seeds are now in major retailers such as Walmart and 7-Eleven. Schaefer attributes their meteoric rise to their ability to leverage social media, particularly through their impressive following of over 700,000 Gen Z fans, demonstrating the profound impact of digital marketing in today’s retail landscape.
Among the trailblazers on the Forbes 30 Under 30 Food & Drink list is Vasu Goyal of Dose Daily. With a background that includes law school and a drive to improve wellness through innovative nutrition, Goyal founded Dose Daily with his grandfather’s health struggles in mind. His venture creates glass-bottled wellness shots packed with ingredients like zinc and elderberry, catering to an increasingly health-conscious society.
Sold in high-end retailers and on platforms like Amazon, Goyal’s approach integrates science-backed efficacy with bold marketing. His commitment to clinical-level research helps set Dose apart in a crowded market, showcasing how informed entrepreneurship can push forward the boundaries of traditional health products.
Another notable entry on the list comes from Gina Galvin, co-founder of Stellar Snacks. With a strong artistic vision informed by her experiences with her French immigrant mother, Galvin is redefining the pretzel industry through innovative flavors and engaging packaging. Stellar Snacks, now a beloved brand, is rapidly expanding its footprint in stores and onboard airlines with its creative offerings.
Their growth strategy has included a sharp focus on community engagement and capital acquisition through various channels like loans and state funding. Notably, Stellar Snacks is investing a staggering $137 million into a new manufacturing facility in Louisville, Kentucky, signaling its commitment to regional growth and product expansion.
In the realm of restaurants, Annalee Schlossberg has made waves with her concept, Bel-Fries. Born out of the post-pandemic need for comfort food, this micro-restaurant has thrived by focusing on high-quality Belgian fries and an array of dipping sauces. The business model proves resilient as Schlossberg has expanded Bel-Fries to multiple locations and a food truck, doubling revenue each year.
This entrepreneurial spirit emphasizes the importance of flexibility and consumer demand analysis in the culinary space. The rapid scaling of Bel-Fries illustrates how pinpointing a niche market can lead to sustained growth and success, even in challenging economic climates.
Meanwhile, the alcoholic beverage market has also seen fresh faces like Jake Tannenbaum, who founded Craftmix, a brand dedicated to creating easy-to-use cocktail and mocktail mixers. By focusing on both health and convenience, Tannenbaum has harnessed the power of direct-to-consumer sales while also gaining traction in retail environments. The growth of Craftmix from humble beginnings to projections of $8 million in revenue showcases the potential of innovative packaging and consumer-friendly products.
Tannenbaum’s journey reflects the budding potential of sustainable entrepreneurship in food and beverage, contributing to a complex market that values both health and taste.
In a landscape increasingly influenced by digital creators, a new wave of food entrepreneurs exemplifies this trend. Among them are Meredith Hayden and her peers, who have captivated audiences on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. By sharing engaging content that demystifies culinary skills, these influencers are reshaping how food products are marketed and perceived.
With millions of followers, they leverage their platforms to introduce innovative concepts and products, demonstrating the indispensable role that social media plays in modern entrepreneurship.
The 2025 Forbes 30 Under 30 Food & Drink list highlights not just individual successes but also emerging trends that are set to shape the industry. From health-centric innovations to sustainable practices and the rising influence of digital creators, these entrepreneurs are laying the groundwork for the future of food. As consumer preferences shift towards transparency, health benefits, and unique culinary experiences, the next generation of food innovators is poised to meet these challenges head-on, ensuring that the world of gastronomy continues to evolve and excite.
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