UK-based dairy group Meadow Foods has announced that it is investing £4 million to develop a new facility dedicated to manufacturing plant-based products.
Located at its Chester site, the plant-based facility aims to respond to increased consumer demand for new and innovative products, as well as customer demand for high-quality value-added plant-based ingredients.
Building work commenced at the site in January 2020 with food production expected to begin towards the end of 2020.
The facility will be used to produce a variety of value-added plant-based ingredients based on a blend of oats and rice, such as milks, creams, yogurts and custard. Meadow Foods also announced the potential plan to expand its portfolio with sour creams, soft cheese and a mousse base.
“We’re excited to be developing our capabilities and capacity to manufacture a range of plant-based products that extend the strength and depth of our product portfolio,” said Mark Chantler, CEO of Meadow Foods.
He added: “Dairy remains core to our business and we will continue to explore strategic investments, partnerships and acquisitions that extend the range of quality products we are able to offer our customers, allowing us to offer complementary products alongside our dairy range.”
The new range will build on Meadow Foods’ product portfolio which was strengthened last year by its acquisition of Nimbus Foods, a supplier of inclusions, decorations and toppings to the food industry.
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