Solar Foods has announced the launch of two new products made with its air-based protein, Solein, through a partnership with Japanese food manufacturer Ajinomoto Group.
The products, Traditional Flowering Mooncakes and Ice Cream Sandwiches, will launch in Singapore under Ajinomoto’s new conscious brand, Atlr.72™. Solein replaces dairy in the products, providing protein, a rich consistency, and a reduced environmental impact. The other ingredients have also reportedly been chosen for their focus on health and sustainability.
Solar Foods describes the limited edition launch as a “significant leap forward”, marking the availability of Solein for consumers and larger-scale commercial use. The products will make their debut ahead of the Mid-Autumn Festival, when Singaporeans gift each other traditional mooncakes.
The pilot is taking place in Singapore as the country has granted regulatory approval for Solein. In future, Ajinomoto aims to expand the Atlr.72™ brand into other countries and launch a wider variety of products. Solein is expected to achieve Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status in the US in the coming months, allowing for market entry and new commercial applications.
The mooncakes and ice cream sandwiches will be available for a limited time at Ajinomoto’s popup stores in two major commercial facilities — Takashimaya Singapore (from August 12) and One Holland Village (from August 30).
“Important milestone”
Solein is produced by taking a microbe and fermenting it using air and electricity. Described as nutritionally rich and versatile, the ingredient is said to be capable of replacing protein in virtually any food.
Solar Foods initially announced the partnership with Ajinomoto — its first with a major global food brand — last year. At the time, the companies said they would develop products using Solein and introduce them to global markets.
At the beginning of 2024, Finnish food producer Fazer began offering a chocolate bar made with Solein in Singapore, marking the protein’s retail debut. Just three months later, Solar Foods announced the opening of what it says is the world’s first commercial-scale air-based protein facility in Vantaa, Finland. The plant can produce 160 tons of Solein per year.
“Ajinomoto’s launch marks an important milestone on our journey to renew existing food categories and reduce the environmental impact of food production,” said Solar Foods CEO and co-founder Pasi Vainikka. “It’s a major step for the commercial use of Solein as our new factory is now ramping up its production, paving the way for the introduction of Solein to people’s plates.”
