Greenleaf Foods, the plant-based subsidiary of Maple Leaf Foods, will partner with The Better Meat Co. to advance alternative protein innovation.
The Better Meat Co produces a fermented mycoprotein ingredient called Rhiza that helps plant-based proteins have a meatier texture. Taste and texture have remained two of the biggest barriers preventing consumers from trying plant-based substitutes. It can also be used to enhance ground beef, pork, fish or crab or as an egg replacer in baked foods.
“Rhiza mycoprotein is a versatile ingredient for use both as a meat enhancer and meat replacer,” states Better Meat Co. executive vice president of operations, Doni Curkendall. “Greenleaf Foods’ expertise in all things protein makes them a stellar partner to showcase this powerful ingredient that will help build an even more sustainable protein industry.”
In addition, the ingredient features a neutral taste, more protein than eggs more iron than beef and more fiber than oats, according to the company’s website.
The Better Meat Co has already partnered with several meat companies, including Johnsonville Sausages and Perdue Farms. In 2019, Perdue Farms released ‘Chicken Plus,’ a blended meat product designed to meet the needs of flexitarian families.
“We are looking forward to working with The Better Meat Co. as we continue exploring alternative protein ingredients to allow us to further diversify our portfolio of delicious, sustainably produced plant-based food,” said Jitendra Sagili, chief R&D and food technology officer at Greenleaf Foods.
“Our current portfolio of over 50 plant-based items, which includes plant-based sausage, chicken, hot dogs, tempeh and cheese, primarily leverages soy and pea protein ingredients. Working with The Better Meat Co. opens up new opportunities for us to innovate with other potential protein sources.”
According to WATTPoultry.com’s top companies database, Maple Leaf Foods’ product lines include packaged meats, ready-to-cook and ready-to-serve meal products and value-added fresh pork, poultry and turkey.
The Canadian company entered the alternative protein segment in 2017 with the acquisition of Lightlife Foods and Field Roast Grain Meat Co. Subsidiary Greenleaf Foods launched a year later to support the Field Roast and Lightlife brands. In 2022, Maple Leaf Foods led the investment round for cultivated meat startup Evolved Meats.
