Interview with Marc Washington, Founder and CEO of Supergut
The world of health and wellness is constantly evolving, and Marc Washington, Founder and CEO of Supergut, is at the forefront of this transformation. In an exclusive interview with Samantha Marino Parker, VP of Business Development at Protis Global, Marc shared the journey behind Supergut, the company’s unique approach to functional foods, and invaluable advice for aspiring founders in the health and wellness industry.
The Story Behind SuperGut
Supergut, a pioneering brand in the functional food space, offers shakes, bars, and fiber mixes designed to promote gut health and overall wellness. But for Marc, this isn’t just a business—it’s a deeply personal mission.
Marc’s journey began as an accomplished health and wellness executive, leading companies like Fiji Water, Pom Wonderful, and Beachbody. Yet, it was a family tragedy that spurred him to create Supergut. After losing his sister Monica to complications from metabolic diseases and a high-risk pregnancy, Marc became determined to address the root causes of such conditions. He saw an opportunity to merge science-backed nutrition with great-tasting, accessible foods to help people live healthier lives.
“My sister’s story was tragically common,” Marc shared. “I wanted to create something that could help people chart a healthier path in a preventative way.”
Gut Health: The Foundation of Wellness
The foundation of Supergut lies in the science of the microbiome—the trillions of microorganisms in our digestive tract that play a crucial role in overall health. Marc emphasized that gut health impacts not just digestion but also metabolic health, cardiovascular health, skin health, and even mental well-being.
“Your gut is tied to nearly every aspect of your health,” Marc explained. “At Supergut, we focus on creating functional superfoods that improve gut health while delivering benefits like blood sugar control and appetite regulation.”
With increasing consumer awareness of gut health and its connection to popular trends like GLP-1 agonists (e.g., Ozempic), Marc noted how Supergut’s science-backed products resonate more than ever.
The Challenges of Scaling a Mission-Driven Brand
Building a brand that combines scientific rigor with consumer appeal is no small feat. Marc shared how the Supergut team navigates the challenges of scaling a mission-driven company while staying true to its values.
- Funding Functional Foods
Securing investment for a clinically backed functional food brand like Supergut requires a unique approach. Unlike traditional CPG brands or tech startups, Supergut occupies a hybrid space that demands evidence-based solutions while appealing to consumer preferences.
“The funding landscape has shifted,” Marc explained. “Investors now want to see not just growth but a clear path to profitability. For us, it’s about finding the right investors who align with our mission and understand both the science and the consumer aspect of our business.”
- Communicating the Science
One of the key lessons Marc has learned is the importance of making complex science relatable. Early in Supergut’s journey, the brand leaned heavily into its clinical studies, but it became clear that consumers needed messaging that was both informative and engaging.
“We’ve moved towards ‘edutainment’—educational content that’s also entertaining,” Marc said. “Whether through social media, blogs, or in-store signage, we aim to connect with consumers in a way that’s simple and impactful, without losing the scientific foundation.”
Breaking into Retail and Driving Sales
In 2024, Supergut expanded from a digitally native brand to a physical retail presence, landing partnerships with major players like GNC, Vitamin Shop, and Target. This milestone represents years of preparation aligning with consumer trends in gut health and metabolic wellness.
“Luck is when preparation meets opportunity,” Marc said. “We’ve been investing in our science and iterating our value proposition for years. Now, with increased consumer awareness, we’re in a position to scale.”
To drive sales in retail, Supergut focuses on sampling, in-store signage, and packaging designed to educate and attract. These efforts aim to communicate the brand’s unique value proposition—gut-healthy, GLP-1-boosting superfoods that also taste great.
Building the Right Team
A critical factor in Supergut’s success is its team. Marc described how the company has evolved from a small technical team focused on product development to a more commercially-oriented group as it scales.
“Impact orientation is key,” Marc said. “Everyone on the team, regardless of their role, is driven by the mission to improve public health. We also value adaptability and a collaborative mindset, which are essential in the fast-paced environment of an early-stage company.”
Advice for Aspiring Founders
Marc offered invaluable advice for entrepreneurs, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds looking to break into the health and wellness space:
- Deliver on Your Promise
“Consumers are becoming more discerning,” Marc said. “Whatever your product claims to do, ensure it genuinely delivers measurable benefits.”
- Solve a Real Problem
“Focus on addressing a real, unmet need,” Marc advised. “It’s not just about what interests you—it’s about what consumers truly want and need.”
- Build Your Network
Marc highlighted the importance of networking, especially for underrepresented founders. “Creating connections and seeking mentorship can open doors you didn’t know existed,” he said.
Inspiring Brands in the Space
Marc praised brands like Olipop and Banza for their innovative approaches to functional foods. Olipop’s prebiotic sodas and Banza’s chickpea-based pasta exemplify how better-for-you brands can deliver on both health and taste without requiring consumers to compromise.
“These brands show how you can create accessible, functional foods that people actually enjoy,” Marc said.
A Vision for the Future
As Supergut looks ahead to 2025, Marc remains committed to his mission of improving public health through gut health. With a growing retail presence, a passionate team, and a product line that delivers tangible results, Supergut is poised to continue leading the charge in the functional food space.
“Gut health is foundational,” Marc concluded. “By helping people improve their gut health, we can make a real difference in overall wellness.”
Learn more by visiting supergut.com