San Francisco-based Palmetto Superfoods has become the first US foodservice operator to bring leaf protein to its menu, through a partnership with food-tech start-up Leaft Foods.

Leaft Foods, based in New Zealand, produces rubisco protein – a plant-based protein ingredient sourced from green alfalfa leaves.

Its new partnership with Palmetto has resulted in the launch of the Blade Smoothie at the smoothie and acai bowl chain’s San Francisco Bay Area locations.

The smoothie contains Leaft’s flagship rubisco ingredient, Leaft Blade, which offers 522mg of essential amino acids per gram. The protein is engineered for rapid digestion, with amino acids delivered significantly faster than traditional proteins.

Each serving also delivers vitamins and minerals that can support gut health, immunity, circulation, hormonal balance, and hair and skin health.

Blade Smoothie, available at $13.95, features a blend of Japanese Matchacado, spirulina, pineapple, kiwi, avocado, chia seeds, dates, coconut milk and Leaft Blade protein.

Charles Lee, CEO and founder of Palmetto Superfoods, said: “The Blade Smoothie represents a new chapter for Palmetto Superfoods. Thanks to our partnership with Leaft Foods, we’re proud to introduce our first greens smoothie – one that’s powerful, functional and packed with clean plant protein.”