The story
Andre Kroecher first began developing Daiya in 2005. Greg Blake partnered with Kroecher in 2007 and the two spent the next year developing the mozzarella and cheddar style shreds based on Kroecher's early innovations. Food scientist Paul Wong was brought on in early 2008 to help with scaleup and refining the formulations. Daiya Foods, Inc's alternatives were first introduced at the Natural Products Expo West in Anaheim, California, in 2009 and were an instant success. In late 2009, Daiya Foods moved to a dedicated facility to ensure the highest level of food safety (Daiya Foods Inc. is an SQF certified facility) After Daiya's acquisition by Otsuka, some retailers discontinued carrying Daiya products due to Otsuka's practice of using animal testing.
In November 2019, Daiya Foods appointed Hajime Fujita as its new chief executive officer, a role in which he will oversee global operations and the brand's international expansion. Fujita joins Daiya from its parent company, Otsuka Pharmaceuticals. Additionally, Melanie Domer has been promoted to chief commercial officer, and John Kelly to chief marketing officer, marking significant leadership changes within the company.
From Wikipedia’s article on Daiya, shared under CC BY-SA 4.0.4

