US food processing distributor Nelson-Jameson has partnered with Vaess and Lallemand Specialty Cultures (LSC) to deliver targeted strategies for companies producing plant-based and hybrid products.

The distributor said the two new partnerships aim to meet the demand for increased diversity in existing customers’ portfolios.

Vaess, based in the Netherlands, is a developer of food ingredients aiming to add value to food across a range of industry categories. The food-tech company began with a focus on meat and sausages and has since diversified into plant-based products including vegan cheese, meat alternatives and vegetable-led concepts.

Coen van Oorschot, director at Vaess, said that the collaboration is part of the company’s mission to create a responsible food chain for future generations.

“As we continue to explore ways to meet changing consumer preferences, it is becoming increasingly important to consider the benefits of plant-based alternatives,” he said.

“By offering plant-based options, we can cater to a wider audience and ensure inclusivity so that there is something for everyone.”

Lallemand is a Canadian company founded in the 19th century, specialising in the development, production and marketing of yeast, bacteria, fungi and their derivatives. Specifically, LSC has over 100 years of experience in dairy culture fermentation. It also provides meat and plant-based solutions, helping to enhance appearance, colour, flavour, texture and food safety.

Julia Plateau-Gonthier, LSC’s category manager for dairy, meat and plant-based cultures, commented: “Based on the many ingredient sources, plant-based foods offer a wide range of possibilities for consumers”.

She added: “Our know-how in microbiology and fermentation as well as our long-standing experience selecting the best cultures for dairy and meat applications is a strong asset for the development of plant-based cultures”.

Nelson-Jameson has expanded from its roots in dairy production supplies to offer a broad range of processing products and services.

The company’s senior VP of strategy and business development, Peter Kempe, said that partnering with Vaess and LSC will help customers to meet plant-based product development goals and explore additional options to complement their dairy business.

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