Dutch multinational Royal DSM and France-based Avril Group have agreed to collaborate on the production of a ‘unique’ protein ingredient made from non-genetically modified rapeseed - otherwise known as canola.
Per the agreement, Avril will supply the rapeseed crop to DSM for processing. Financial details of the deal were not disclosed.
The end goal is for the partners to develop an industrial production facility at Avril’s Saipol facility on France’s north coast, where the commodities supplier makes refined vegetable oils and oilseed meal. Commercial availability from first production is slated for late 2021.
Complete protein, easily digestible
As an ingredient, DSM said the CanolaPRO rapeseed protein has “excellent properties, a high nutritional value, and a balanced taste profile".
“DSM’s novel process allows for this protein to be extracted from oil seeds without extracting high amounts of oil, while ensuring a native protein and efficient removal of anti-nutritional facts, yielding a high-quality protein isolate,” a DSM spokesperson told FoodNavigator.
The isolate is a complete protein containing “all the essential amino acids for muscle growth and body maintenance in an optimal ratio”, the spokesperson continued.
Further, the protein is 'very well digested' – leading on soy, pea, rice and wheat glutens – and is not included on any allergen lists.
In the US, rapeseed proteins don’t require any allergen labelling specifications or recommendations. In Europe, products containing rapeseed protein must alert shoppers that there may be a risk for cross-allergic reactions in consumers allergic to mustard. In Canada, authorities recommend that people allergic to mustard avoid rapeseed protein.
A sustainable plant-based ingredient
Once on the market, the protein ingredient will make for an 'ideal' addition to meat and dairy alternatives, beverages, baked products, bars and ready-to-mix, said the ingredients supplier.
“CanolaPRO protein has outstanding foaming properties, comparable with egg albumin, excellent emulsification properties, and is also suitable for the vegan, Kosher and Halal markets,” we were told.
According to Avril CEO Jean-Philippe Puig, the partnership will help both firms meeting the growing demand in the plant-based sector.
“With 10bn inhabitants by 2050, experts predict global demand for both animals and plant-based proteins to grow, with exponential growth in plant-based proteins due to dietary shifts,” said Avril CEO Jean-Philippe Puig.
Based on early data, DSM predicts the ingredient to be 'very sustainable', adding that the extraction process is solvent-free. The partnership will conduct a full life analysis in due course.
DSM chief innovation officer, Trish Malarkey, reiterated that the collaboration is underpinned by commitments to sustainability and health.
“More people are opting for flexitarian, vegetarian and vegan diets for personal, health and environmental reasons. With our expertise, DSM can support all forms of proteins produced to the highest sustainable standards.
“With Avril as a partner, we will be uniquely positioned to serve this growing market and look forward to helping our customers deliver great tasting, healthy, and sustainable food and beverages.”