Qualitas Health has announced partnerships with Grupo Indukern and Gullspång Re:food, including new funding, as it prepares to launch an algae protein line in 2022. Earlier this year, the food and nutrition company announced that it had secured $10 million in venture funds. Qualitas Health has now closed its Series A round funding at $12.5 million, following investments from chemicals business Grupo Indukern and food-tech investor Gullspång Re:food. According to Qualitas Health, the new partnerships will provide its iwi brand with direct access to the investors’ facilities and teams, along with their expertise. Qualitas Health cultivates the algae Nannochrolopsis to produce high-absorption omega-3. The company is also expanding its algae-derived offering into alternative protein and is looking to launch the new ingredient and products line next year. The company’s partnerships with Grupo Indukern and Gullspång Re:food will focus on applications and opportunities for iwi algae protein, which is said to offer a full complement of essential amino acids. Miguel Calatayud, CEO of Qualitas Health, said: “Grupo Indukern and Gullspång Re:food are the perfect partners for the current scaling stage. They bring know-how and expertise to iwi’s existing supplement business and wider recognition of our newly developed Nannochloropsis algae protein. “They also provide a global vision, a distribution platform for Europe and other countries and regions, and unique expertise in plant-based proteins and finished products. Their knowledge, skilled technological team, and advanced technologies will help in conducting clinical research and accelerate the regulatory process for Europe.” Peter Odemark, a Gullspång Re:food managing partner, added: “Qualitas has a great story to tell. Its algae is cultivated in impressive pond systems built on nonarable land in the desert, places minimal footprint on the natural ecosystem, harnessing natural sun power for energy and utilising saltwater, while creating jobs in rural communities.” #algae #alternativeproteins #plantprotein #QualitasHealth

Upfield has expanded its Becel spreads offering in Canada with the introduction of a new vegan margarine made from a blend of plant-based oils and oat milk. According to Upfield, Becel with Oat Beverage is a source of omega-3 and contains no artificial flavours, colours or preservatives. The company also claims that one serving of its new plant-based spread contains 80% less saturated fat than a portion of dairy butter. The new Becel offering – which joins plant-based bricks and a vegan spread as part of the brand’s dairy-free range – is kosher and halal, as well as gluten free. “Becel aims to satisfy the appetites of Canadians whose food interests are ever changing,” said Mandy Au, brand lead Becel, Upfield North America. “With plant-based eating on the rise, oat milk has emerged as one of the fastest growing non-dairy beverage choices in Canada. That’s why we are thrilled to bring consumers Becel with Oat Beverage which complements the buttery taste of Becel with the rich creaminess of oat beverage, or oat milk, for a delicious, dairy-free plant-based margarine to spread, cook and bake with.” Becel with Oat Beverage is available at major grocery stores nationwide. The new spread is currently being made at Upfield’s plant in Rexdale, Ontario, but the company says that production will move to its new facility in Brantford after it opens later this year. #Upfield #Dairyalternatives #Canada #Oatmilk #Becel

Kerry’s Richmond brand has expanded its Meat-Free range by launching new meat-free meatballs and mince in the UK. Both Richmond Meat-Free Mince and Richmond Meat-Free Meatballs are now available from UK retailer Asda, and will launch in Sainsbury’s from 21 April. Both new products are made from soy and wheat protein, similarly to the two existing products in Richmond’s Meat-Free range, burgers and sausages, first launched in 2019. According to Kerry, both new products are Vegan & Vegetarian Society approved and aim to capitalise on the exponential growth of plant-based meat alternatives. Victoria Southern, marketing and category director at Kerry Foods, said: “We know the meat-free market is booming but we’re seeing a real opportunity for growth in shoppers who are looking for affordable, delicious meat-free food to slot into family favourites – that they know will result in clean plates all round. “The launch of Richmond Meat-Free Mince and Richmond Meat-Free Meatballs is a natural expansion of the range as we continue to champion bringing people together at mealtimes.” Richmond Meat-Free Mince is available in 335g packs, while Richmond Meat-Free Meatballs are available in 352g packs containing 16 meat-free meatballs. Both products have a recommended retail price of £3. #KerryFoods #meatalternatives #Richmond #UK

Plant-based energy bar maker, Quantum, has raised $2.5 million in a seed funding round. Major League Soccer star Jozy Altidor has announced his investment in Quantum Energy Squares, alongside tennis players Sloane Stephens, Mike Bryan and Sam Querrey, and former president and CEO of Ballast Point and Cutwater Spirits, Jim Buechler. Quantum Energy Squares are plant-based, coffee-infused snack bars with balanced macronutrients from fruits, seeds and nuts plus MCT oil which “helps slow caffeine absorption for long-lasting energy, with no spike and no crash,” a statement said. Energy Square flavours currently include: Dark Chocolate & Pink Himalayan Salt, Caffe Mocha Almond Chip, Peanut Butter Dark Chocolate and Coconut Almond Chocolate Chip. Quantum products are certified gluten-free, non-GMO, soy-free, dairy-free and kosher, and are available nationwide at Whole Foods and Sprouts Markets. #coffee #energybars #Quantum

Vegan fried chick*n firm VFC Foods has raised £2.5 million in a seed funding round led by vegan investment fund Veg Capital. Founded in December 2020, UK-based VFC produces a range of vegan alternatives to fried chicken, which are available to consumers in the UK and Spain. As well as the investment from Veg Capital, VFC received additional funding from plant-based investment fund Johnson Resolutions, as well as the company’s senior leadership team. The company claims that it will use the funding to scale up production and accelerate the growth of the brand both in the UK and internationally. The firm also announced that it is working on ‘version 2’ of its chick*n product, aiming to further improve the texture and flavour profile of its products. VFC’s co-founder Matthew Glover – who also serves as the managing director of Veg Capital – will now serve as the CEO of VFC Foods, while the company’s other co-founder chef Adam Lyons will continue to oversee the company’s operations. In a statement, Glover said: “Our ultimate mission is to end factory farming, and so we are focused on driving efficiencies through our business that will allow us to compete directly with chicken on price, taste and convenience. I couldn’t be more thrilled with how the well the launch phase has gone.” VFC’s director of sales Stewart McGuckin added: “The launch phase has been phenomenally successful, with sales far exceeding our expectations, incredible food service and retail interest, as well as enquiries from more than 50 countries. “All this has shown us two things: we have a brand and a product that people really love, and that we are ready to shift up a gear.” #seedfunding #meatalternatives #UK #VegCapital #VFCFoods

US-based nut butter and snack brand Abby’s Better has raised $1 million in a seed round, ahead of a Series A funding launch, with investments from professional basketball player Kevin Love and supermodel Kate Bock. Established in 2015, the female-owned, family-operated clean label brand is aimed at creating healthier snacks that are gluten-free, peanut-free, paleo and plant-based. Meanwhile, its nut butters and snack bites contain five or fewer ingredients and are sweetened with fruits or honey. Abby’s Better will use the funds to build brand awareness and scale its national distribution. “I started Abby’s Better when I was 15 years old because I noticed the lack in variety of nut butter and healthy snack options that were both flavourful and nutritious,” founder and CEO, Abby Kircher, said. Love added: “Impressed by the company that Abby has built, and the products her team has brought to market, I’m excited to work with a food brand that leads with both taste and natural ingredients, along with Abby’s own strong entrepreneurial spirit”. “I’ve always been passionate about clean, healthy eating and that’s why I’m an advocate for Abby’s Better products,” said Bock. “There are so many delicious products to choose from, but the Coffee Almond Butter is my absolute favourite.” Abby’s Better can be found in grocery and big box stores throughout US states, including North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, Florida, Virginia, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York and Massachusetts. #AbbysBetter #plantbasedsnacks #seedfunding #US

Bel Brands USA has announced the launch of its first exclusively plant-based cheese brand, Nurishh, which comes in six varieties. The expansion beyond typical cheese products demonstrates Bel’s mission to become a major player in the healthy snack market; diversifying through growth in dairy, fruit and plant-based products. Bel Brands says Nurishh strikes the balance of “genuine cheesy taste, meltability and comfort with plant-based goodness”. The line is certified plant-based and lactose-free and features three slices and three shreds formats. The slices come in cheddar, mozzarella and provolone style varieties; while the shreds will be available in cheddar and mozzarella styles, as well as a cheddar & mozzarella style blend. Bel claims the vegan cheese is a good source of calcium and vitamin B12, and contains no artificial colours or flavours. “Nurishh can help you create dishes that bring everyone to the table – like a perfectly melted grilled cheese or a delicious cheesy pizza,” said Florian Decaux, plant-based acceleration director for Bel. Nurishh will be available at select retailers in April, with nationwide in-store availability increasing throughout the year. #Nurishh #US #BelBrandsUSA #dairyfree #plantbasedcheese

Acacia gum, also known as gum arabic, has the advantage of being 100% plant-based, sustainable and multifunctional…but its benefits on digestive health can also be added to the list. A recent study conducted by French company Alland & Robert proves it: more than eight in ten people who consumed acacia gum every day for two months said that their intestinal wellbeing had improved. Acacia gum comes from the exudation of acacia trees after the incision of their stems and branches. As a highly safe, natural and plant-based additive used for many centuries, acacia gum offers numerous functional properties and is today found in thousands of day-to-day products. Natural gums leader Alland & Robert has researched the role acacia gum can play in gut health, and found that it is a gut-friendly agent that helps with the digestive wellness of consumers who regularly suffer from intestinal disorders. Relatively unexplored until recently, intestinal disorders are the subject of increasing attention. Scientists now understand that these issues may have a larger impact on the occurrence of many pathologies, from weight gain to chronic or autoimmune diseases, and even dermatological problems. There is significant demand for food, beverages and dietary supplements with digestive health advantages. As a direct consequence, the market for food products dedicated to digestive wellness is exploding. By 2025, it is expected to reach $59 billion. Acacia gum is a multifunctional and natural option to formulate food and beverages with gut health claims. Acacia gum taken daily improves intestinal discomfort and pain Alland & Robert mandated a leading company in consumer insight and sensory marketing. They recruited 240 consumers who admitted they suffered regularly from intestinal issues. The consumers received various dosages of acacia gum to take daily for two months. After 60 days, 88% of consumers said they had low intestinal pain, and over 80% witnessed an improvement in their intestinal discomfort. Overall, 78% of consumers said the daily intake of acacia gum had a beneficial effect on their gut health. The study helped to highlight that acacia gum improves global digestive wellness and relieves the symptoms of intestinal discomfort. As such, acacia gum can be an efficient ingredient for the formulation of gut-friendly food and beverages. Acacia gum: Prebiotic fibre for a diversity of applications Acacia gum is also a fibre and a prebiotic. Thanks to its functional properties, it is a good ingredient to enhance the fibre content of food products without compromising the appearance, texture or flavour of the food product. Based at the University of Montpellier in France, Professor Christian Sanchez and his team have been working on new uses for acacia gum for over eight years. Sanchez said: “Because of its classification as a fibre and its emulsifying properties, acacia gum could, theoretically, be used in all formulated food products since it also has the advantage of being temperature stable. Think yogurts, dairy products and derivatives, as well as baked goods and, more broadly, any flour-based products.” “Multifunctional and versatile, acacia gum has many advantages. It can give texture, sweeten a taste or mask an aftertaste, and it can increase the fibre or prebiotic content with a very low-calorie intake. Today, our study shows that acacia gum is a good fit in products formulated to improve digestive comfort. This also confirms that acacia gum responds in an innovative way to the challenges encountered in many industries,” said Violaine Fauvarque, marketing manager at Alland & Robert. French company Alland & Robert has been manufacturing Acacia gum since 1884. Their technical paper summarising the results of the research about acacia gum and gut health can be requested by email: info@allandetorbert.fr. #AcaciaGum #AllandandRobert #France #guthealth

Eat Just has secured $200 million in a new funding round to accelerate the growth of its plant-based egg alternative and cultured meat. The round was led by the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), the sovereign wealth fund of the state of Qatar, joined by private investment firm Charlesbank Capital Partners and Vulcan Capital. Eat Just will use the investment to increase production capacity, build its brands in key international markets and accelerate its research and development programmes. The food tech start-up has raised more than $650 million since its founding in 2011. “We are very excited to work with our investors to build a healthier, safer and more sustainable food system. Their knowledge and experience partnering with companies that are transforming numerous industries were fundamental in our decision to partner with them,” said Josh Tetrick, co-founder and CEO of Eat Just. The company also plans to continue reducing cultured meat product costs, scaling its commercial manufacturing operations and advancing its work on other types of meat. Last December, Eat Just made history by receiving regulatory approval for its cultured chicken in Singapore, in what was deemed a world first. In the first months of 2021, the company says it has witnessed record-breaking retail sales for its Just Egg pourable format. Chinese fast-food chain Dicos recently added Just Egg’s pre-baked folded format to its menu, reportedly marking the first time a major quick service restaurant has swapped an animal-based product with a plant-based one. The company has also announced its expansion into Canada, which will see its Just Egg product stocked in more than 1,000 grocery stores and widely available across foodservice platforms. #US #EatBeyondGlobalHoldings #culturedmeat #Just #plantbased #EatJust

Protein Industries Canada is investing in a new partnership that will develop and commercialise soybean protein ingredients. The initiative has seen Canada Protein Ingredients – Ingrédients Protéiques du Canada (CPI-IPC), DJ Hendrick International, Agrocorp Processing, Semences Prograin and Synthesis Network join forces with the aim of producing clean label protein ingredients from Canadian-grown soybeans. CPI-IPC and the consortium members have committed around CAD 20 million (approx. $16 million) to the project, with Protein Industries Canada to contribute CAD 7.3 million (approx. $5.8 million). The partners will collaborate to develop a proprietary process for producing soybean protein ingredients and soybean oil that comply with non-GM and organic labelling standards. Semences Prograin will develop and test non-GM soybean varieties that are optimised for Canada’s growing conditions. Meanwhile, DJ Hendrick International and Agrocorp Processing will assist in developing and testing the new end products, as well as in marketing them to international markets. CPI-IPC will process the soybean crops at a new facility in Canada, which is expected to break ground in the next 18 months. “This investment enables Canada Protein Ingredients to meet growing global demands with completely made-in-Canada products,” said CPI CEO Jim Millington. “There is currently no soybean protein isolate or concentrate manufacturing capacity in Canada, despite soybeans being a major crop for farmers. CPI is poised to commercialise Canadian science, further process Canadian soybeans and respond to a global market hungry for plant-based protein.” Together with industry, Protein Industries Canada says that it has committed more than CAD 347 million to the country’s plant protein sector, with previous investments including a project to improve the functionality of pulse-based ingredients. “The project being announced today is a clear example of how the Protein Industries Supercluster is supporting the plant-based protein industry, creating new opportunities for industry and providing more options for consumers in Canada and around the world,” said François-Philippe Champagne, Canada’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry. “The Supercluster is playing a key role in connecting the right partners, who together have the potential to access untapped opportunities in the plant protein market.” Protein Industries Canada CEO, Bill Greuel, added: “Helping Canada rise from being a commodity supplier to a world-renowned supplier of plant-based ingredients is part of Protein Industries Canada’s mission. This project is yet another step we take in that direction. Harnessing the potential of new crop varieties developed and grown in Canada generates more opportunities across our entire value chain, from farmers to food manufacturers.” #CanadaProteinIngredientsIngrédientsProtéiquesduCanada #plantprotein #ProteinIndustriesCanada #soybean

Veggies Made Great is on a mission to create the highest quality, remarkably delicious and nutritionally smart veggie-rich foods that are ready-to-eat and available everywhere. The plant-forward company combines clean and simple ingredients to create a line of veggie-rich prepared foods. The product line is allergy-friendly (gluten-free, soy-free, peanut and tree nut-free, and with many dairy-free options) and always showcases veggies as the stand-out ingredient. Since 2008, Veggies Made Great has been an industry groundbreaker for frozen and refrigerated foods leading to tremendous distribution gains with key retailers such as Walmart, Costco, Kroger, Target, Shop Rite, Publix, Stop & Shop, Giant, Meijer, Harris Teeter, HEB, Ralph’s, Fry’s and The Fresh Market. Over the course of its 10-year history, Veggies Made Great has made significant changes to deliver on its mission: remarkably delicious veggie-rich foods by offering more flavours, varieties and formats. The company has reshaped its portfolio to include three times the velocity of its original product line, meeting the growing consumer demand for healthy, plant-forward, convenient foods. The convenient and frozen line of products includes: Veggies Made Great Muffins available in blueberry oat, double chocolate chip, banana chocolate chip and the latest flavour, apple cinnamon; Veggies Made Great Veggie Cakes, available in superfood super blend, broccoli cheddar and butternut squash; and Veggies Made Great Frittatas, available in spinach egg white, veggie bacon & potato, mushroom & 3 cheese egg white, sausage, egg & cheese made with Beyond Meat, and sausage & pepper made with Beyond Meat. Made with a delicious blend of seven different veggies, brown rice and egg, the number one selling Superfood Veggie Cake is the ultimate breakfast, snack or side dish. Superfood Veggie Cakes continue to grow at an amazing rate due to the fact that they offer the customer a healthy, portable and convenient plant-forward option they can enjoy on-the-go. They are now available in butternut squash and broccoli cheddar variants. All flavours are gluten-free and only 90 calories or less. Veggies Made Great’s veggie-rich frittatas are high in protein, low in calories and now available in five flavours: spinach egg white, veggie bacon & potato, mushroom & 3 cheese egg white, sausage, egg & cheese made with Beyond Meat, and sausage & pepper made with Beyond Meat. The company has recently partnered with Beyond Meat, the leader in plant-based proteins, to deliver both new Beyond Meat frittata flavours. Veggies Made Great also offers an array of muffins. Made with a delicious blend of zucchini and carrots to moisten and sweeten the muffins, Veggies Made Great muffins make the perfect breakfast, snack or guilt-free indulgence. The muffins are 120 calories or less and use vegetables as the primary ingredients. Blueberry oat muffins have become a top-seller and a breakfast go-to for Veggies Made Great customers. The double chocolate muffin may sound suspicious, but these are made with clean and simple ingredients and taste like a decadent lava cake when heated. The newest addition to the line, the apple cinnamon muffin, elevates this delicious, traditional flavour to new heights. The suggested retail prices of the products are: $4.99 for the six-count items, $9.99 for the Costco 12-count items, and $12.99 for the 20-count items. For more information, visit the Veggies Made Great website here . #partnercontent #snacking #VeggiesMadeGreat

Danone has begun production of plant-based Alpro drinks at its Labinsk plant in the south of Russia, marking the first time the beverages have been produced in the country. An investment project to create a new production line at the facility in Krasnodar Krai was initiated in late 2019. The first stage of the project has now been completed, with the production of oat, almond and coconut drinks underway. The move comes in response to growing interest on the part of Russian consumers in plant-based products. According to Danone, the new line’s capacity is 7,000 units of product per hour in 1-litre and 0.75-litre packaging. The company also recently announced a €12 million investment in a new plant-based production line at Danone’s Parets del Vallès factory in Spain. Keep up to date with the plant-based industry by subscribing to FoodBev’s latest title, The Plant Base, launching March 2021. #Alpro #Danone #Russia