Beneo to introduce first semi-finished product

Beneo has announced that it is expanding its portfolio with the introduction of its first semi-finished product, plant-based chicken chunks, next year.

The new solution is said to mark the “next strategic step on the company’s plant-based roadmap,” and follows Beneo’s acquisition of Dutch ingredients provider Meatless earlier this year.

Available in fresh and frozen form, the plant-based product is said to offer an authentic fibrous chicken-like structure and juicy mouthfeel, and is made from just four ingredients: mycoprotein, pea protein, a pH regulator and flavouring.

Jos Hugense, founder of Meatless, said: “When it comes to plant-based meat alternatives, taste, texture and sustainability are king for consumers. There is incredible market potential for those food producers who can harness all three.

“Thanks to our new technology process, we have been able to do just that, creating low-processed, short-ingredient-list imitation chicken chunks that deliver, both in terms of outstanding sensory quality and cost-effectiveness. Manufacturers wanting scalable, easy-to-implement solutions that don’t compromise on taste or enjoyment need look no further.”