September 26, 2006

Cargill launches new textured soy protein

Cargill is launching a new soy protein to consolidate its position in the growing health market.

Its latest offering, ProSante XCL, is a newly developed textured soy protein, which Cargill said has a structure resembling that of muscle meat.

Up until now, soy protein products have mainly been used as meat extenders or ingredients in vegetarian meals, but Cargill claims that ProSante XCL now provides manufacturers with a genuine alternative to meat.

The company said that the products' appearance, bite and chewing properties makes it ideal to replace meat in processed products such as fresh, canned and instant soups or noodle preparations and spring rolls.

The company hopes to ride on a growing trend among health conscious consumers who prefer vegetarian food but want to experience the bite sensation of meat products.

The overall European market for soy products, currently standing at more than CAN 1.5 billion a year (US$1.34) is expected to grow at roughly 10 percent a year.

While soy has gained credibility as an alternative to animal proteins, most textured products do not meet consumers expectations in terms of look or bite, said Henk Jan Buurman, soy protein product manager for Europe, Middle East and Asia. Burrman believes ProSante XCL would be the perfect answer to the current problem.