KMC’s significant investment in its new Innovation Center signals a strong commitment to advancing plant-based food solutions. The company, owned by 600–700 potato growers, achieved record sales of USD 488.1 million in 2023, reflecting its confidence in the burgeoning plant-based market.
The Innovation Center
The newly inaugurated Innovation Center in Denmark is a testament to KMC’s forward-thinking approach. CEO Jesper Burgaard emphasizes the center’s pivotal role: “Our Innovation Center is central to our strategy and will play a crucial role in establishing a Danish stronghold within bio-solutions and the production of future plant-based foods.” This facility will enable KMC to collaborate closely with clients, providing access to cutting-edge resources and expert guidance on enhancing product value through innovative use of potato-derived ingredients.
Focus on Sustainability
KMC is dedicated to sustainability, aiming to replace animal-based products with plant-based alternatives. Potatoes, which have a low climate footprint and high caloric yield per hectare, are central to this mission. Burgaard highlights the environmental impact: “KMC’s work plays an important role in efforts to reduce global greenhouse gas emissions through Danish technologies.” By harnessing the starch, fiber, and proteins from potatoes, KMC is creating ingredients essential for a wide range of foods, including bread, noodles, chips, snacks, and plant-based cheeses and sauces.
Economic and Environmental Impact
The new Innovation Center is not just a hub for technological advancement but also a strategic move to meet the growing demand for plant-based products. KMC exports its goods to over 90 countries, and the Innovation Center will further enhance its ability to innovate and deliver high-quality ingredients globally. This expansion will consolidate KMC’s development department, allowing for better expertise sharing and the hiring of more professionals to address the specialized needs of potato-based food solutions.
KMC’s investment in the Innovation Center underscores its commitment to leading the plant-based food revolution. By leveraging the unique properties of potatoes and focusing on sustainable practices, KMC is poised to make a significant impact on the global food industry, providing healthier, environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional animal-based products.
