Vestkorn textured pea and bean protein – a sustainable meat substitute

Meat production accounts for one-fourth of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions, and yet global meat consumption continues to rise. In addition, current levels of meat production and consumption are not sustainable for a global population of almost 8 billion people – which is projected to reach 9.7 billion in 2050.

In response to this, scientists at the UN have recommended that governments enact meat-reduction policies and that individuals adopt a mostly plant-based diet.

Vestkorn Milling has developed a textured vegetable protein (TVP) made from peas and fava beans. The product mimics chicken and pork, making it a healthy, sustainable alternative to meat. It is 100 per cent natural, non-GMO, and soy and gluten free. An organic version is available as well.

Vestkorn’s TVP has a high-quality amino acid profile with a protein content of 65 per cent. Made without chemicals, it is a clean-label alternative to other vegetarian proteins on the market.

Textured pea and bean protein is the newest product in the company’s line of proteins, starches, fibre and flours for the human food, pet food and animal feed industries.

Vestkorn’s TVP has a small carbon footprint, thanks to the company’s dry processing method. Unlike wet methods, dry processing does not use acids and bases that require large amounts of fresh water. Nor does it create chemical-laden wastewater in need of treatment and disposal. The result is a more economical process with significant energy savings and less environmental impact.

Moreover, peas and fava beans are native to Europe, and this means the raw materials for Vestkorn’s TVP can be grown locally, closer to consumer markets. Over time, this may help to reduce European consumption of soy in human food and animal feed, and replace it with a less allergenic, more eco-friendly alternative.

The plant-based protein market is expected to reach USD 15.6 billion in the next five years, driven by consumer demands for animal-free, sustainable and healthier protein alternatives, especially pea-based protein. In addition, the EU is seeking to reduce its soy imports from Latin America and promote the cultivation of native protein-rich plants in Europe.

Vestkorn’s vision is to create food for the global good. With 10 years of experience in protein extraction, Vestkorn is the largest producer of its kind in Europe.