Pioneering work to use potatoes to generate a plant-based protein that’s ideal for vegan and vegetarian food products is being led by Branston in the first UK partnership with innovations company RootExtracts Ltd.
In this respect, Branston is preparing to launch a new GBP6m extraction facility at its Lincolnshire headquarters. RootExtracts Ltd has been set up specifically to focus on developing and commercializing this technology, following on from the work pioneered by B-hive Innovations Ltd., according to Agronomist & Arable Farmer.
The team began working on the most effective way to extract protein from potatoes in 2013, starting from a lab-based level and gradually scaling up to a commercially-viable operation.
The new factory will convert secondary grade low-value potatoes into functional plant-based protein, as well as generate starch-based products for a range of manufacturing applications.
A Very High Quality and Nutritious Protein
The amount of protein in potatoes is very low – typically only 1 or 2% – but it is very high quality and nutritious, containing a full set of amino acids, experts say.
Potato protein has a high level of functionality which provides solutions that are fundamental to food manufacturers and aids the recipe development process. For example, it’s a good choice for vegetarian food producers looking for the same binding qualities as eggs.
According to a recent press release, the team can now gently extract the protein fraction (as well as a mixture of starch and fiber) from secondary grade potatoes and some of the by-products of our processing operations, adding significant value to the merger’s operations.
The building is almost complete and the team is finalizing the design of the internal equipment. It is next to Branston’s fresh and prepared factory which means raw material is abundant on hand.
