About BitterLiebe
The story of two founders, one mother-in-law, and the power of bitter botanicals.
Our Mission
At BitterLiebe, we want to bring the power of bitter substances back into people's consciousness. We want BitterLiebe to find a place in every household—just like salt and pepper. We love the taste of bitter and see bitter as a lifestyle: powerful, natural, and distinctive.
Out Story
Early 2018
The idea at the dinner table
While having dinner with their mother-in-law (their wives are sisters), Jan and Andre discover bitter compounds. These were served after every heavy meal. Enthusiastic about the effect, but disappointed by the taste and design of existing products, they decide: we can do better.
9 months of development
70 recipes perfected to perfection
In Jan's basement, the two tinker away at the perfect formula. With the support of doctors and alternative practitioners from their circle of family and friends, they test over 70 different recipes—until BitterLiebe is born.
End of 2018
Sold out in 2 weeks
The planned annual supply is completely sold out within just two weeks. In the first three months, BitterLiebe already generates EUR 100,000 in sales.
2019
German Shark Tank
Andre and Jan appear on the show "Die Höhle der Löwen" (The Lion's Den) and win over all the investors. They choose Judith Williams as their partner—a deal that makes history.
2020-2026
Growth
The product range is being expanded to include powder, tea, and other formats.
Today
Europe's No. 1 bitter brand
With over 500,000 satisfied customers, FOCUS Growth Champion 2026, and a growing range of over 15 products, BitterLiebe has brought the bitter taste back into the European consciousness. Now it's time for the US to follow suit.
The founders
Andre Sierek
CEO & Co-Founder
Jan Stratmann
COO & Co-Founder
Our Team
What started as a small founding team has grown into a passionate group of experts dedicated to bringing traditional herbal knowledge into modern routines. From product development to customer support, our team continues to grow alongside our community — united by one mission: making natural wellness simple, effective, and part of everyday life.
Best known from the German version of Shark Tank
In 2019, Andre and Jan appeared on the popular German TV show "Die Höhle der Löwen" (The Lion's Den) and impressed investors with their vision. They chose Judith Williams as their partner—the beginning of a rapid success story. Today, BitterLiebe is one of the fastest-growing food startups in Europe and has been named a growth champion by FOCUS magazine.