---
title: "How Numilk worked with Xometry to improve plant-based milk production"
url: https://www.voxelmatters.com/how-numilk-worked-with-xometry-to-improve-plant-based-milk-production/
date: 2025-01-20
modified: 2025-01-18
lang: en
author: "Davide Sher"
description: "Founded by Ari Tolwin and Joe Savino, Numilk began with a concept of grocery store vending machines that could produce plant-based milk at the touch of a button. While the..."
categories:
  - "3D Printing Service Providers"
  - "Networks"
  - "Rapid Prototyping"
image: https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Xometry_Numilk_3d14ef47-6817-40f4-b97f-1b2156bdd10a_unnamed92.avif
word_count: 659
---

# How Numilk worked with Xometry to improve plant-based milk production

Founded by Ari Tolwin and Joe Savino, Numilk began with a concept of grocery store vending machines that could produce plant-based milk at the touch of a button. While the idea had merit and initial success, the founders realized that focusing on grocery stores limited their potential reach. This realization sparked a change that would ultimately allow Numilk to grow its business with some help from [Xometry](https://www.voxelmatters.directory/company/xometry/).

![Learn about the fascinating journey of Numilk and Xometry from grocery store vending machines to countertop-friendly models.](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Xometry_Numilk_Straight-On-with-Bottle-with-Action-RET1.webp)During their appearance on Shark Tank, Tolwin and Savino presented a refined vision: smaller, countertop-friendly machines that could fit into homes and coffee shops. Mark Cuban, impressed by the concept, invested $2 million in the company. This funding, combined with the exposure from the show, propelled Numilk forward. However, there was one major challenge. The prototype shown on Shark Tank was a high-quality 3D printed model, not a fully functioning machine. Developing a smaller, functional product required both speed and precision to meet growing demand.

Numilk partnered with Xometry to navigate this critical phase. With Xometry’s manufacturing services, Numilk was able to prototype parts quickly using CNC machining and 3D printing. These methods allowed them to explore various design iterations while keeping costs manageable. Eventually, as production scaled, Numilk transitioned to injection molding, efficiently producing high-quality plastic parts in larger volumes.

One of the standout features of the Numilk machine is its food-safe Tritan emulsifier bottle. This component is central to the product's functionality, allowing customers to create fresh plant-based milk without adding additives. Traditional plant-based milk typically includes stabilizers and preservatives to prevent separation during storage, but Numilk's approach eliminates these by producing milk on demand.

This method not only enhances the flavor and texture of the milk but also minimizes its environmental footprint. Unlike traditional products, which are 80% water and require constant refrigeration throughout the supply chain, Numilk machines use small, shelf-stable ingredient pouches. This shift significantly reduces energy use and packaging waste. For example, families using a Numilk machine can save up to 160 milk cartons from landfills each year. Coffee shops, which often have a higher volume of usage, can prevent approximately 3,000 cartons annually from contributing to waste.

To support Numilk’s ambitious goals, Xometry provided more than just manufacturing services. The company offered design-for-manufacturability (DFM) feedback to help refine product designs, ensuring they were both efficient to produce and durable in use. Xometry’s network of pre-screened suppliers allowed Numilk to access the expertise needed to meet the stringent requirements of food-grade materials.

![Learn about the fascinating journey of Numilk and Xometry from grocery store vending machines to countertop-friendly models.](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Xometry_Numilk_3ccbc935-8dbe-4ba2-8a90-d212ea6cf6e7_unnamed87.avif)William Suh, Engineering Director at Numilk, noted that Xometry’s tools and resources allowed their small engineering team to manage multiple tasks efficiently. With access to rapid prototyping and scalable production, the team could design, test, and deliver their Pro3 and Pro4 machines to market in just six months each. This ability to act quickly and refine its product helped Numilk establish its place in the competitive plant-based milk industry.

The partnership between Numilk and Xometry highlights how strategic collaboration can streamline complex processes. By starting with prototyping and gradually scaling to injection molding, Numilk was able to create a cost-effective production pipeline without compromising quality. This approach enabled them to meet immediate demand and positioned them for future growth.

As Numilk looks to the next phase of its journey, the focus remains on expanding its offerings while maintaining its commitment to sustainability. Plans include introducing larger bottles for high-volume users, creating industrial compostable pouches, and developing new flavors and ingredient combinations. These advancements aim to enhance the customer experience while further reducing environmental impact.

Xometry continues to play a role in this evolution, offering the flexibility to meet changing production needs. From ideation to full-scale production, the company provides the tools and expertise needed to efficiently bring innovative ideas to market. Whether through material substitution during prototyping or scaling production for new product lines, Xometry helps businesses like Numilk succeed. By combining a clear vision with expert support, Numilk has transformed plant-based milk production into a sustainable and accessible solution for households and businesses.