Marine nutrition is gaining momentum in the functional beverage space. Aqua Theon, founded by Forbes Japan 100 honoree Alissa Miky, has closed a $13 million seed funding round, with $5 million specifically allocated to scale its beverage brand OoMee.
The investment follows rapid early traction for OoMee, which has sold more than 100,000 units within its first six months and secured placement in over 700 retail outlets, including Sprouts Farmers Market, Raley’s, and Bristol Farms.
Betting on Marine-Based “Seabiotics”
Unlike many prebiotic sodas that rely on land-based fibres such as inulin or chicory root, OoMee’s formulation is powered by Seabiotics™, a proprietary technology derived from agar-agar, a red seaweed traditionally used in Japanese cuisine. Aqua Theon has adapted this ingredient into a smooth, non-carbonated beverage format designed to support gut health and satiety.
Agar-agar functions as a soluble fibre that expands slightly in the stomach, promoting fullness and helping manage snack cravings. The drink is also positioned as gentler on digestion compared to carbonated “prebiotic” beverages. Each 12-ounce can contains 20 calories, under 5 grams of sugar sourced from fruit juice and monk fruit, and no caffeine.
Expanding into the Matcha Category
With dedicated capital earmarked for beverage growth, OoMee is now entering the ready-to-drink matcha segment. Its upcoming canned matcha line blends organic green tea with its seaweed-derived fibre, combining the antioxidant and L-theanine benefits of matcha with Seabiotics’ digestive support.
New flavours include Lemon Mint, Passionfruit & Yuzu, and Berry, positioning the brand as a multi-functional hydration option for wellness-focused consumers.
Sustainability at the Core
Aqua Theon’s marine-based model is also rooted in sustainability. Seaweed grows rapidly—up to 12 inches per day—and captures significantly more carbon dioxide than many terrestrial plants while requiring no freshwater or fertilisers. The company operates a zero-waste process in which agar extraction byproducts are fermented and repurposed into agricultural fertiliser, producing more than 2,800 tons annually.
Riding the Blue Economy Wave
The $13 million raise reinforces Aqua Theon’s ambition to lead in marine-based nutrition, a segment gaining attention as consumers seek alternative functional ingredients beyond traditional superfoods. Following recognition as “Best New Drink Concept” at the Beverage Digest Awards and an expanding retail footprint, OoMee is positioning seaweed not as a niche health ingredient but as a mainstream hydration staple for 2026 and beyond.
