Companies join forces to develop protein rich foods

Nizo food research, Royal FrieslandCampina, Ruitenberg Ingredients and Sonac are joining forces as ‘Tapas’ to develop protein rich foods.

These companies, based in the Dutch provinces Gelderland and Overijssel, are responding to the increased worldwide demand for protein rich foods.

Global human population is growing and the world demand for such food is increasing. Protein is crucial in a balanced, healthy diet. In addition, different types of consumers, such as the elderly, hospital patients and athletes, need food that is especially rich in protein. These needs can be addressed by combining plant- and animal-based proteins and by using the available protein more effectively and efficiently. The Tapas consortium will develop solutions to this end.

The four companies will bring knowledge and expertise from different angles. Nizo food research has knowledge of proteins and the interactions between products and processes. Dairy expertise will come from Royal FrieslandCampina, which has several production sites in Gelderland and Overijssel and an innovation centre in Wageningen. Ruitenberg will bring its knowledge in the field of plant-based proteins for the vegetarian industry and Sonac will contribute with its expertise in functional proteins – developed on animal by-products – for the meat industry.

The partners expect their collaboration to speed up the development of food products and reduce time to market.