Branston, one of many UK’s largest potato suppliers, will start manufacturing at its new “pioneering” potato protein extraction facility in early 2024.
The corporate is at present finest identified for its recent potatoes, together with merchandise reminiscent of French fries. However as demand for plant-based meals continues to develop, Branston plans to broaden by producing protein for the meals trade.
The development of the positioning, which is described as the primary of its type within the UK, was first introduced in 2021. On the time, Branston reported that it will make investments round £6 million within the undertaking, which can solely use potatoes grown within the UK. Forward of the opening, Branston has employed a common supervisor, Tom Seagrief, to move up the ability. He returns to the corporate after beforehand becoming a member of the crew as a part of a graduate programme over a decade in the past.
“The world is our oyster relating to the potential makes use of of potato protein, with the marketplace for plant-based meals persevering with to develop. I’m thrilled to be a part of the Branston journey as we fine-tune and scale up our operations to satisfy the demand for UK-grown useful protein,” stated Seagrief.
Versatile ingredient
Potato protein has numerous technical functions, together with binding, gelatinisation, and emulsification. The ingredient can be utilized in a variety of merchandise, reminiscent of meat alternate options, baked items, deli merchandise, and extra. Market analysis means that the potato protein trade is about to see important development within the coming years, largely pushed by health-consciousness and a shift in direction of plant-based diets.
The Branston crew first started investigating the best approach to extract protein from potatoes in 2013. After ten years of analysis and improvement, the method has been scaled up from a lab-based degree to a commercially viable operation.
“With the official manufacturing facility opening due in early 2024, we’re specializing in recruitment to broaden our extremely expert crew. We’re additionally testing and optimising the ultimate product, now in its pre-production part, and dealing carefully with potential prospects to make sure we’re able to gear up for full manufacturing,” stated Seagrief.
