In the first-quarter earnings call last week, chief executive officer Noel White said the business was looking to make “great-tasting protein alternatives that are more accessible for everyone”.
Although the business has made some inroads into this growing category in the past, this may the company’s proper step into the sector. As reported by Talk Business and Politics website, White said: “We will be leveraging all the resources we have at our disposal — insights, innovation, manufacturing, sales, distribution and a global platform — and in the weeks ahead, you’ll be hearing more from us as we announce new products in the alternative protein space,” White said. “The investment we’re making here is significant and will feature products for consumers and foodservice customers.”
He noted that the US was behind Europe and Asia in this trend, adding, “Tyson will flex its muscles to ensure alternative proteins are more accessible in the US and abroad.”
This comes as the North American Meat Institute called on the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) to have primary jurisdiction of plant-based protein products rather than the US Food and Drug Administration.
The North American market certainly isn’t short of NPD in this sector. Canadian-based processor Maple Leaf Foods’ alternative protein brand Lightlife Foods launched a new plant-based range to the US retail market.
GlobalMeatNews’ The Future of Plant-based Proteins conference takes place on 26 June in Amsterdam. Sponsored by Firmenich, the event features presentations by The Good Food Institute, The Meatless Farm Co, Finnebrogue and the European Plant-based Food Association. To register your place, click here.