The most read articles, week of 2 September 2024

??Nutella goes vegan in Europe

Ferrero has unveiled a plant-based version of its iconic Nutella spread, replacing milk with ingredients like chickpeas and rice syrup. The vegan-certified product will debut in select European markets.

??Beyond Meat introduces plans for mycelium steak

Beyond Meat plans to launch a mycelium-based steak alternative, aiming to meet the demand for clean-label, high-protein options. The whole-cut product, made from mycoprotein for a realistic texture, will debut at a health-focused restaurant chain, with no launch date specified yet.

??Dairylea launches vegan dunkers in UK

Dairylea is introducing a plant-based version of its popular Dunkers in the UK, featuring crispy tubes paired with a vegan cheese dip made from coconut oil and oat flour. While the product is listed on Morrisons website, it is not yet available for purchase.

??ExSeed unveils sustainable sunflower protein

Bulgarian startup ExSeed has developed a functional sunflower protein isolate, offering a sustainable, non-allergenic alternative to soy and pea proteins. Derived from sunflower press cake, a byproduct of oil production, the circular process yields a complete, neutral-tasting protein ideal for plant-based foods, supplements, and more.

??Thailand aims to become global plant-based protein hub

Thailand's Trade Policy and Strategy Office has released a roadmap to position the country as a global leader in plant-based protein production. The strategy focuses on boosting agricultural infrastructure, enhancing research and innovation, and expanding both domestic and international markets for plant-based products.

??Plant-based outperforms meat on emissions & health

A report by The Food Foundation reveals that all plant-based meat alternatives—ranging from new-generation products like Beyond Meat to whole foods such as beans—produce significantly fewer emissions than meat while offering more fiber and less saturated fat.

??SimpliiGood to launch spirulina smoked salmon

SimpliiGood will debut its spirulina-based smoked salmon in Europe in early 2025. The high-protein, clean-label alternative mimics traditional salmon in texture and appearance, offering a nutritious, sustainable option with fewer than ten ingredients.

??QuornPro launches new food service division

QuornPro has launched QuornPro Distribution Partners, a new division offering complete menu solutions for food service. Its first collaboration with Good it’s Gluten Free includes an allergen-free margherita pizza designed for schools.

??Lantm?nnen invests SEK 1.2 billion in plant protein facility

Swedish cooperative Lantm?nnen is investing SEK 1.2 billion (€105M) in a new facility to produce pea and faba protein isolates for plant-based foods. The plant, expected to be operational by 2027, will boost Swedish pea cultivation by 50% and help meet the rising global demand for sustainable plant-based proteins.