Cargill will launch a line of private label plant-based patties and ground products in April, giving retailers and foodservice businesses the opportunity to capture a share of the growing plant-based protein market under their own brands.
The plant-based products, "which were developed through culinary insight, extensive consumer research and innovation," are made in Cargill facilities, the company noted.
"We've combined our deep knowledge of plant proteins with our expertise in R&D, product development and production to deliver products consumers will love," said Elizabeth Gutschenritter, managing director of Cargill's alternative protein team. She noted the analogue products will be made "across our global supply chain."
Cargill has invested $7 billion globally in animal protein in the past five years while making strategic investments in the alternative protein space. It's also invested in cultured meat firms.
"Cargill's strategy for both food and feed is based on helping customers thrive in a world where demand for protein is rising," said Brian Sikes, leader of Cargill's global protein and salt business. "We need to keep all protein options on the table," he added, noting global demand for both animal and alternative protein is expected to increase 70% growth over the next 30 years.
There are many plant-based proteins to choose from in formulating analogue meat products; we've developed a guide to them all here.
