Food tech company Plantible Foods has closed a $21.5 million Series A funding round, as it prepares to commercialise its duckweed-derived protein. Founded in 2018, Plantible has developed a vertically integrated agricultural platform to produce plant-based protein from Lemna, more commonly known as duckweed. The company says that its Rubi Protein emulates the functional characteristics of widely used animal-based proteins. In addition, Plantible claims that Lemna is considered to be one of the most protein-efficient crops in the world, reportedly yielding ten times more protein per acre than soy. According to Plantible, Lemna allows for a consistent daily harvest throughout the year, as grown in a controlled environment, it doubles in mass every 48 hours. The round was led by Astanor Ventures, with participation from returning investors such as Unshackled Ventures, Vectr Ventures, Lerer Hippeau and Kellogg’s venture capital fund, Eighteen94 capital. Other investors in the round included Piva Capital, CJ CheilJedang, Good Friends and Google SVP of product Bradley Horowitz, as well as Trevor Martin and Chris Bryson, founders of Mammoth Biosciences and Unata, respectively. Over the past year, Plantible has built out a small pilot plant, and the company now plans to use the Series A funds to construct its first commercial facility to launch and commercialise its product in 2022. “Plantible is not competing with other plant proteins, our goal is to remove chickens and cows from the food supply system,” said Plantible Foods CEO Tony Martens, who co-founded the company with Maurits van de Ven. “Currently available plant proteins don’t pull their weight when it comes to competing with animal-based products on taste and nutrition. “By combining plant science, biochemistry and engineering, we are able to create drop-in replacements for these widely used animal-derived proteins without forcing consumers to sacrifice on either taste or nutrition, paving the way for an accelerated transition towards a healthier planet.” Christina Ulardic, partner at Astanor Ventures, said: “Beyond the transition away from animal-based protein, the diversification of plant-based protein sources is fundamental to ensuring that the agri-food system will not depend on a set of monocultures”. “From camping on the farm to the speed at which they have met each milestone since the last funding round, we are continuously impressed by Maurits and Tony’s exceptional personal dedication to their mission.” Bennett Cohen, partner at Piva Capital, added: “Tony and Maurits have tenaciously pursued a unique approach to Lemna cultivation and RuBisCO extraction, producing a plant-based protein that is more affordable, better functioning and more planet-positive than any other protein source”. #AstanorVentures #US #Kellogg #PlantibleFoods #plantprotein

Scotland-based Baxters Food Group has expanded its plant-based soup portfolio with the introduction of three additional flavours. The new vegan offerings can be enjoyed as an easy midweek dinner or quick lunch and contain one of consumers’ recommended five daily servings of fruit and vegetables in every bowl. The new Baxters soups include: Sundried Tomato & Thyme; Spiced Red Lentil, which combines lentils with warming spices and ‘tangy’ tomatoes; and Thai Yellow Vegetable Curry, which is said to be “peppered with fragrant spices and aromas”. Sarah Knowles, marketing communications manager at Baxters Food Group, said: “Our Plant Based range has been one of our most successful launches to date and Baxters is delighted to have developed three new vegan soups that we’re proud to add to shelves as part of our Plant Based line-up”. “Baxters’ development chef, Darren Sivewright, has created an incredible flavour profile with an array of spices, nutrients, plus a satisfying texture that will not disappoint.” The new soups are available in Asda and Sainsbury’s stores across the UK. #BaxtersFoodGroup #plantbasedsoup #UK

Kitu Life is introducing a new plant-based creamer for its Super Coffee brand as part of its limited-edition seasonal line Maple Pumpkin. The line features ready-to-drink Super Coffee and Super Pods, which were first launched in autumn 2020, and a brand new plant-based Super Creamer. The range will be available online from 14 September and is currently available at retailers nationwide, including Target and Kroger. The Maple Pumpkin line features a combination of sweet and creamy maple pumpkin, protein, antioxidants and medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) oil for focus and clarity. Super Creamer is available for $19.99 per three-pack, while the ready-to-drink Super Coffee is available for $33.99 per 12-pack and the Super Pods is available for $9.99 In April, Kitu Life unveiled a blueberry latte variant for Super Coffee. #KituLife #plantbased #SuperCoffee #supercreamer

The popularity surrounding plant-forward nutrition is here to stay. Consumers are more conscious about what they eat and drink, and many are uncompromising in their pursuit of wellbeing. As a result, awareness and interest in plant-based protein is growing – whether it is being driven by personal health motivations and goals, or concerns with animal welfare and environmental issues. With 42% of US consumers now leaning towards a flexitarian lifestyle, plant proteins stand as an attractive option for consumers who seek alternatives and want it all (research from ADM Outside Voice). With the rise of the plant-centric diet, there is a growing demand for products that deliver nutrition without sacrificing taste, texture and variety. ADM, an industry leader in plant nutrition for over 75 years, has created NutriFlex™, a portfolio designed to provide innovative formats of alternative protein solutions for every customer, no matter their manufacturing or production capabilities. With certain new nutritionally fortified plant protein powdered blends, value-added texture and functional systems, and finished culinary crafted plant-based solutions, the NutriFlex™ platform delivers speed to market with on-trend plant nutrition solutions, simplifying supply chain and production complexities along the way. The NutriFlex™ integrated system prioritises nutrition, functionality, format and taste. Discover how ADM’s proven applications and case studies can help you shape what’s next to achieve future success in this evolving category. Partner with ADM today and deliver consumer-preferred plant-forward solutions. #ADM #Flexitarian #nutrition #partnercontent

Little Moons, the popular Mochi brand, is launching a brand-new vegan Belgian chocolate and hazelnut flavour to add to its range. The London-based brand is introducing its signature gelato ice cream in chocolate with caramelized hazelnut chunks throughout. Free from artificial flavourings, colours and preservatives, this will be the third addition to its vegan range. Howard Wong, Co-founder of Little Moons, stated: “Our goal was to create a rich and indulgent flavour that tastes so good you wouldn’t know it’s vegan, and judging from the reaction we’ve had from everyone who’s tried our brand new Belgian Chocolate & Hazelnut Little Moons we’re confident we’ve cracked it!” There is 14 flavours to choose from, including Vegan Tropical Passionfruit and Mango, Himalayan Salted Caramel, Creamy Coconut and Uji Matcha Green Tea. This particular flavour will be available exclusively in Tesco for six weeks before being rolled out nationwide with an RRP of £4.50 per pack. #LittleMoons #mochi #Mochiicecream

California-based dairy alternative company Misha’s Kind Foods has announced that it has closed a $3 million seed fund in collaboration with Marcy Ventures Partners Fund. The company, founded in 2018 by Ian Martin and Aaron Bullock, stated it will use the investment to accelerate their product development, retail expansion and staff growth. With the plant-based dairy free market set to hit $45 billion by 2027, Misha’s Kind Foods aims to strengthen its position in the plant-based and dairy free industry sector. CEO and co-founder of Misha’s Kind Foods, Bullock, said: “These investors, and their enthusiasm, not only confirm the quality and excellence of our artisan cheeses, but they also align with our long-term vision and mission”. He continued: “We are here to serve the large community of cheese lovers, plant-based and not. Everything we make is kind to your body, kind to the planet and kind to your wallet”. The company’s 100% vegan cheeses are made from its own creation of cashew and almond milk and blended with an assortment of vegetables, herbs and spices. They are also lactose and gluten free. #dairyfreecheese #MishasKindFoods #US #vegan

Sustainable snacks company Barnana has announced the introduction of its new Organic Plantain Crisps. The line includes two flavours: sea salt, with organic coconut oil and sea salt; and garlic, which also features organic garlic. According to Barnana, its chips are savoury because they are made from green plantains – ‘which are rich in resistant starch that has not yet converted to sugar’. Both of the brand’s new varieties contain 0g of sugar per serving. The new crisps are also said to be paleo-friendly and free from gluten and grains. “Plantains are an incredibly versatile fruit, used in countless ways globally,” said Barnana founder, Caue Suplicy. “Our new Organic Plantain Crisps are a savoury, crispy, layered chip perfect for Americans who love potato chips but seek something new that’s made from ingredients that are better for you and better for the planet.” With an SRP of $4.99 per 4oz pack, Barnana’s Organic Plantain Crisps can be purchased via Amazon and the brand’s website, and will also roll out to retailers including Whole Foods Market in mid-September. #Barnana #US

Nestlé has announced that it is upgrading its R&D facilities in Singapore, in celebration of the 40th anniversary of its opening. The R&D centre has played a key role in developing new products and technologies for South East Asia and beyond over the last four decades. Commenting on the centre, Chris Johnson, CEO for Zone Asia, Oceania and sub-Saharan Africa, said: “All food is local. If you want to be successful in our business, you need a good understanding of the flavours people love, the dishes they want to serve to their families, the food trends they want to try. That’s why it’s so important to have a research and development team in Singapore, here in the heart of South East Asia, a centre of excellence driving innovation and product development in Asia, for Asia.” The upgraded facilities feature state-of-the-art labs, experimental kitchens, consumer testing, sensory evaluations rooms, open working spaces, as well as Nestlé’s fundamental research hub. The upgrade will also include a new regional R&D accelerator, providing a “world-class platform” for start-ups, students and Nestlé employees in the region to develop and test novel concepts in under six months. Thomas Hauser, head of global product and technology development for Nestlé added: “Our R&D centre in Singapore has a long history of developing innovative products for South East Asia that are inspired by the cultural diversity and different local cuisines”. “Upgrading the centre with state-of-the-art facilities including the new R&D Accelerator is proof of our long-term commitment to the region. We will also be able to respond to food and beverage trends and challenges more quickly and efficiently,” he said. The R&D centre will continue trialling innovations and new products across brands such as coffee mixes, powdered beverages such as Milo, culinary products, plant-based foods & beverages and ice cream. You may also like to read: Nestlé raises guidance after coffee demand boosts first-half results Nestlé to invest $70m in cookie dough manufacture at US factory Nestlé and Starbucks extend RTD coffee partnership to new markets #innvoation #Nestlé #Researchanddevelopment #Singapore

Innovative coffee company Taika has raised $2.2 million in a seed funding round led by Obvious Ventures. The round also included participation from Kindred Ventures, Human Ventures and Quiet Capital, as well as multiple angel investors. Taika, which creates functional blends of coffee, tea and adaptogens, has also launched a functional canned matcha latte made with “creamy, housemade macadamia milk high in healthy fats and protein”. The macadamia milk is developed using a secret formula that is keto-friendly, vegan-friendly and has zero carbohydrates “unlike alternatives like oat milk,” a company statement said. “Our vision for Taika is to help people effortlessly live healthier lives,” said Michael Sharon, co-founder and CEO of Taika. “Our new adaptogenic Matcha Latte gives people another way to do that and builds on our existing product line of outrageously delicious, perfectly calibrated beverages that are authentically good for you. Scaling this vision out over the next few years is possible thanks to the support of our inspiring community and wonderful group of investors.” He continued: “We’re thrilled to continue partnering with Obvious Ventures who have a long track record of supporting transformative, world positive companies like Beyond Meat and Miyoko’s. We’re also delighted to continue working with Kindred Ventures, Human Ventures and Quiet Capital as well as our stellar group of angel investors.” “Our approach to developing new products is simple in theory yet challenging in practice,” said Kal Freese, co-founder and head of product at Taika. “While many other canned matcha drinks use non-organic, culinary grade matcha, we source the very best ingredients we can get our hands-on, which included blind taste testing dozens of teas, and then turning them into delicious and healthy ready-to-drink products with minimal processing and no preservatives. He added: “Taika’s organic, ceremonial grade matcha from Kagoshima has a nuanced sweetness and 60mg caffeine per can (half of our coffees) that works magnificently with our naturally sweetened macadamia milk”. #latte #Matcha #Taika

US-based producer of fresh fruits and vegetables, Taylor Farms, has made an investment in Pure Green farms, which grows, packs and ships leafy greens year-round from its hydroponic farm in Indiana. The expansion will enable Taylor Farms to make its foray into the greenhouse growing sector and complement Taylor’s existing 122,200 crop acre field-grown programme and 16 salad producing facilities across North America. “We’re excited to venture into the industry of indoor growing with this investment,” said Bruce Taylor, founder and CEO, Taylor Farms. “Our customer partners have asked for a national solution and this is our first step.” Pure Green Farms’ facility is a climate-controlled environment equipped with high-tech machinery, which has the potential to be expanded by up to 300 acres. “We are thrilled to work alongside an industry leading company like Taylor Farms,” said Joe McGuire, CEO of Pure Green Farms. “We know this is just the beginning of a fantastic relationship with Taylor Farms and we’re looking forward to continuing to address the increasing demand for local product offerings.” #freshproduce #Greenhousefarming #PureGreenFarms #TaylorFarms

Winterbotham Darby is opening a second plant-based factory at its Milton Keynes site to support its Squeaky Bean brand. The investment, valued at £5 million, will see boost the site’s distribution and production capabilities in the chilled plant-based market, and create more than 100 jobs. Combined both Milton Keynes sites will have a 73,000ft² footprint. The installation will also feature a griller, opening up additional opportunities for new product lines to be created. Squeaky Bean has launched more than 14 products in the past 12 months – including the recent launch of its Chargrilled Mini Fillets. Tom Faulkner, head of plant-based at Winterbotham Darby, said: “Demand for plant-based produce is increasing rapidly and in recent months our operations have been stretched to capacity. Opening our second plant-based factory will help us to fulfil both existing and new opportunities and is testament to our belief in the category.” He continued: “As UK consumers’ expectations of plant-based food increase, more people are discovering how Squeaky Bean Chargrilled Mini Fillets offer all the taste and texture of real chicken – but are made entirely from plants. Our additional production capacity will support strong demand for these products and allow us to introduce these and the rest of the range, to a bigger audience than ever before.” #meatfree #plantbased #SqueakyBean #WinterbothamDarby

Meat alternatives manufacturer Quorn is launching a new culinary development centre in Texas, Dallas, as it looks to strengthen its position in the meat-free chicken category. The new centre will enable the company to test culinary equipment and coating on mycoprotein (the super-protein used in all Quorn products) in real-time conditions. The centre will allow Quorn to replicate operations in a variety of environments, spanning quick service restaurants all the way through to fine dining. It will also feature a state-of-the-art product development lab to accelerate innovation to market for the North American business. The centre was opened by Quorn Foods US business president, Judd Zusel, and executive chef, Stephen A Kalil. “I’m excited to join Quorn at a time when the meat alternative category is really taking off,” said Quorn president Judd Zusel. “With Chef Stephen at the helm, we are poised to deliver new and exciting meatless chicken innovations creating a significant competitive advantage for Quorn and our retail partners.” Investment from parent company Monde Nissin will also position Quorn for accelerated growth in the US. The Philippines-based company will use some of its $1 billion IPO proceeds to support its growth in the meat-free chicken sector. “Our ambition is to become the king of alternative chicken globally,” said Quorn CEO Marco Bertacca. “With new leadership, our state-of-the-art culinary centre and new innovations accelerated by this IPO, we believe we’re well-positioned to do just that.” #US #Quorn #meatalternatives #MondeNIssin #meatfree