Multinational ingredients provider Ingredion is set to open a new manufacturing plant dedicated to plant-based proteins. The plant, based in Sioux City, Nebraska, will mainly produce protein isolates for use in both food and health products.
Previously known mainly for its starch-based ingredients, Ingredion has been expanding into the plant protein sector for a while. Last year, it partnered with Clara Foods to produce a vegan egg alternative. The company is investing $185M into growing its range of plant-based proteins.
2020 has been a good year for plant protein. In July, a report found that the transition towards plant-based protein had gone mainstream, and the Canadian government allocated $100M to the plant protein industry in the country.
Meanwhile, major food groups DSM and Avril announced they would be collaborating to produce plant-based proteins. And a report in March found that the value of the plant protein market would more than double by 2029.
“We’re excited to take this next step to further advance our specialties strategy and capitalize on the global trends shaping the food industry,” said James P. Zallie, president and chief executive officer of Ingredion. “As demand for food and beverages with plant-based proteins continues to grow, our South Sioux City location will significantly expand our product portfolio providing more innovative solutions to our customers.”
