Roquette has opened what it claims is the world's largest pea protein plant, positioning it to meet growing global demand for alternative proteins.
The company works with food producers to develop plant-based products, with the aim of promoting "sustainable food for a healthier planet". According to the company, multiple industry estimates suggest an annual global growth rate between 15 and 24 percent over the next decade.
The facility is located just outside Winnipeg in Manitoba. The region reportedly produces more peas than any other in the world, all within a day’s drive of the plant.
“We see this as a transformational event in our history and a boost to the global plant-based food sector”, said Pierre Courduroux, CEO of Roquette. “Diets have changed considerably in recent years, and the desire for alternative proteins continues to grow. Our company is proud to bring this amazing new facility online to serve demand in North America and around the world.”
“The pandemic has led to stronger consumer demand for plant-based proteins while also disrupting global supply chains. This plant will help our customers move forward rapidly on product development,” said Jeremy Burks, Senior VP of Plant Proteins at Roquette. “The plant protein food sector needs investment, expertise and innovation to meet global demand, and Roquette brings it all. We’ve seen excitement from new and existing customers who can’t wait to develop new products with us.”
With this facility, the company has largely exceeded the half a billion euros investment in plant proteins it had targeted in the period 2015-2020. The 200,000 sqft plant has capacity to process 125,000 tons of yellow peas per year which, when combined with the its plant in France, puts the company's total capacity at 250,000 tons of peas per year.
Speaking about the facility, Dominique Baumann, MD of Roquette in Canada, said: “This plant is an engineering marvel. We are entering into the next level of quality, efficiency and commitment to the market. The design of the plant is a proof-point of our sustainable development approach, with 100% hydroelectricity power and optimized water management. This plant is part of a whole story, involving farmers, suppliers and local teams.”
The company’s Nutralys pea protein can be used in meat alternatives, nutrition bars, plant-based biscuits and beverages.