Ingredient manufacturer BENEO has opened a new pulse-processing facility in Obrigheim, Germany, following an investment of approximately €50 million by parent company Südzucker Group. The new plant processes locally grown pulses, including faba beans, into ingredients for use in food and animal feed applications.
The facility, built adjacent to BENEO’s existing site, spans around 4,000 square metres and is expected to create up to 25 new jobs. It expands the company’s capabilities in producing plant-based ingredients and complements existing production lines for Isomalt and Palatinose™ (isomaltulose), both carbohydrate-based sweeteners.
The plant is designed with a strong emphasis on energy efficiency and minimal environmental impact. Operations are powered entirely by electricity sourced from renewables. A rooftop photovoltaic system contributes additional power, and waste heat generated during production is used to heat the facility. The pulse-processing operations are water-free, further reducing resource consumption.
Zero-waste operational model
A zero-waste approach underpins the site’s operational model, with all processed materials being converted into products for the food and feed industries. The faba beans processed at the facility are cultivated in Germany and carry REDCert2 certification, which aligns with the highest level of the Farm Sustainability Assessment (FSA) from the Sustainable Agriculture Initiative (SAI).
At an inauguration event held on April 11, regional and company officials marked the facility’s official opening. Daniela Schmitt, Minister of Economic Affairs for Rhineland-Palatinate, described the plant as a contributor to regional economic development and job creation, stating, “BENEO’s new plant represents a strong commitment to Rhineland-Palatinate as a business hub. At the same time, the investment is driving innovation in the food industry and strengthening regional value creation.”
“Feeding a steadily growing world population in a sustainable way is undoubtedly one of the biggest challenges of our generation”
The decision to focus on faba beans stems from their agronomic and nutritional profile. As nitrogen-fixing legumes, they do not require synthetic fertilisers and contribute to soil health, offering benefits in terms of sustainable farming. The processed protein ingredients are intended for use in products such as meat and dairy alternatives, as well as egg replacements.
Dr. Niels Pörksen, CEO of Südzucker Group, noted, “Feeding a steadily growing world population in a sustainable way is undoubtedly one of the biggest challenges of our generation. One of the many ways we are addressing this is by investing in the expansion of our plant-based protein division.”
