First Dutch circular meat substitute in the making

Consumers are on the hunt for healthy and sustainable products, which is why they're increasingly opting for plant-based choices over meat. That's precisely where four Dutch companies aim to make a splash. PeelPioneers, Beefygreen, Revyve, and Hilton Foods Dalco are joining forces to create the Netherlands' first circular meat alternative. It's a move that could forever transform the food industry.

This initiative taps into the growing demand for sustainable alternatives to conventional meat production. A key aspect of this venture involves mapping the climate impact by conducting a Life Cycle Assessment. Leveraging a unique blend of advanced technologies and locally sourced ingredients, such as citrus fiber and king oyster mushroom stems, these visionary enterprises are determined to develop a plant-based meat that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also minimizes environmental impact.

Backed robustly by the renowned European subsidy program, Opzuid 21-27, these foodtech pioneers are intent on driving innovation to yield a flavorful, circular, and nutritious product.

Why is this collaboration so special?

Together, the four entities bring more than 20 years of collective expertise in plant-based meat production, innovative product development, and circular business operations.

PeelPioneers, renowned for their proficiency in upcycling discarded citrus peels into valuable ingredients, will play a pivotal role in supplying sustainable citrus fibers to the plant-based meat alternative. This dietary fiber offers a pleasant texture and also contributes to a higher Nutri-score.

Beefygreen is famed for processing deformed mushrooms and surplus from growers into circular ingredients and products. Their technological know-how and product development expertise are vital components for this initiative.

Revyve - formerly Fumi Ingredients - is a scale-up that, since 2019, has been transforming brewer's yeast into functional proteins and fibers, enhancing the texture and nutritional value of the final product.

Hilton Foods Dalco crafts vegetarian alternatives for private labels and brand partners. With a vast product portfolio featuring items like veggie chicken products and beef substitutes, Dalco possesses the technology to combine all ingredients into a final product and scale it for commercial production.

Circular Meat Alternative

So, what can we expect from this groundbreaking collaboration? Within just two years, we anticipate the launch of a climate-positive, delectable meat alternative gracing Dutch store shelves. "This collaboration instills in us the confidence that we can offer consumers a flavorful, environmentally-friendly alternative," says Peter Roosink, Innovation Lead at PeelPioneers.

Are you ready to be a part of this flavor revolution? Keep your eyes (and taste buds) open for the unveiling of this circular meat alternative come February 2025!