Plant-based protein specialist Meala FoodTech and dsm-firmenich have teamed up to launch Vertis PB Pea, a new texturising pea protein suitable for functional foods.
The functional ingredient is designed to replace modified binders like hydrocolloids, allowing manufacturers to make clean-label, plant-based meat alternatives, which are growing significantly in popularity.
Meala and dsm-firmenich have already commercialised the functional food ingredient in Europe, and plan to scale operations to provide to the growing global plant-based protein market.
Through the agreement, dsm-firmenich will provide its distribution expertise, as well as venture investment to pave the way for the pea protein's expansion in global markets.
Vertis PB Pea is protected by two patents, consolidating its functionality as a binder, gelator, emulsifier and protein source.
Accoriding to the companies, the ingredient can replace the entire binding system often found in meat alternatives, while keeping a label's ingredients short and recognisable to minddful consumers.
It is suitable for any plant-based meat formulation, including burgers, sausages, nuggets and more.
Key benefits of Vertis PB Pea include:
- Clean label and allergen-free
- Its thermostability, meaning it will maintain its performance under both heat and low temperature, enhancing its versatility
- Appealing texture through water retention, providing juiciness
- Shortens a meat alternative's ingredient list
- Increases the protein content of a meat alternative
"As consumers are increasingly drawn to clean-label products that deliver a favourable taste experience, food manufacturers are now seeking all-in-one ingredient solutions," noted Tali Feldman Sivan, CBO and co-founder of Meala FoodTech.
"Vertis PB Pea addresses both functionality and clean-label demands, while replicating the sensory profile and experience of conventional meat products."
"With dsm-firmenich's application support, regulatory expertise, ability to drive global commercial rollouts and understanding of the food industry, we hope to lead the new era of plant-based alternatives that merge high performance and robust nutrition," concluded Hadar Ekhoiz Razmovich, CEO and co-founder of Meala FoodTech.