Responding to the rapid rise in consumer demand or plant-based protein, Cargill has signed a joint venture with US pea protein producer Puris to accelerate a new wave of sustainable, plant-based foods.
With a growing number of consumers looking for simpler labels and alternative sources of protein to solve their personalised nutrition choices, manufacturers are turning to pea protein because of its functional and nutritional attributes.
Cargill said that pea protein offers a non-GMO, organic, allergen-friendly option “that checks all the boxes consumers are looking for in label-friendly products”.
David Henstrom, vice president of Cargill starches, sweeteners and texturisers, said: “Cargill is excited to expand into the emerging pea protein space while continuing to support our conventional agricultural crops.
“It’s clear that Puris is in alignment with Cargill’s vision to meet the growing demand for protein globally and to help customers deliver label-friendly products without sacrificing taste.”
Puris president Tyler Lorenzen believes the deal and subsequent financial backing from Cargill will enable the pea protein brand to expand globally.
“Cargill is investing in everything Puris stands for, from our vertically integrated non-GMO pea seed development, to our proprietary technologies and our commitment to US certified organic pea farmers,” he said.
“With Cargill’s support, our plant-based ingredients become available to customers and consumers on a global scale. Our founder set out to feed the world in 1986. Now it’s coming true.”
Cargill aims to continue its expansion in new fields with its Farm To Fork Accelerator, which it established with Ecolab and Techstars last year. The programme aims to support innovation in the agriculture, food safety, food-related digital technology and food processing sectors.
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