By substituting a percentage of the meat with potato, Botaniline – a food technology and innovation company that has created a healthier ground protein product line and partnered with National Food Group to distribute these convenient meal solutions nationwide – can achieve cleaner label processed meat products that are lower in sodium and saturated fat.
The proprietary technology uses potatoes that are cut a certain way and cooked at a specific temperature for just the right amount of time. Since the potato acts as a binder and peptide, it naturally helps proteins retain their flavor so nutrition panels come out looking a lot cleaner.
The ingredient list can be cut in half and substituted with just one: “potato.” The new brand of healthier, convenient food items is being introduced and distributed by the National Food Group to schools, healthcare facilities, and government agencies nationwide.
“The potato is chemically restructured and cooked at a precise time and temperature, which causes it to act as a natural peptide, retaining the moisture and flavor of the meat without the need for fillers, binders, allergens, chemical additives, and added salt that are typically used during processing,” the company experts explained.
The result is a reduction in sodium by up to 90% and a product that’s free of all allergens, including gluten, MSG, TVP, and soy while maintaining the quality, flavor, taste, and texture of the finished product. This unique way of processing with potatoes also results in savings of important quantities of water per kilo of meat.
“We’re proud to create a healthier solution for Food Service Operators at a time when they need it most. Our partnership with National Food Group is a natural fit for us to provide delicious, on-trend menu items that are better for you – and the planet. Together, we are proud to bring innovative food solutions that are healthier and more sustainable to foodservice operations across the country,” explained Mark Celmer, Botaniline CEO.
Botaniline has created more than 100 varieties of hot dogs, sausages, burgers, and chicken patties that are all lower in sodium, saturated fat, and calories with a cleaner label.