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Tag: protein

The Power of Pea Protein: Why It’s Leading the Charge in 2025 

Written by Benjamin Davis on . Posted in Ingredients, Trends.

Pea protein has emerged as a frontrunner in the global protein market. Its versatility, nutritional profile, and sustainable production have positioned it at the forefront of food innovation in 2025. 

Market Growth and Projections 

The global pea protein market has experienced significant growth, with its value reaching approximately USD 2.42 billion in 2024. Projections indicate that this market will continue to expand, reaching USD 7.13 billion by 2033, driven by a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.78% over the forecast period.  

Factors Driving Popularity 

Nutritional Benefits: Pea protein is rich in essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source suitable for various dietary needs.

Allergen-Friendly: Unlike soy, wheat or dairy proteins, pea protein is hypoallergenic, catering to consumers with specific dietary restrictions.

Sustainability: Pea cultivation has a lower environmental impact compared to animal farming, aligning with the increasing consumer demand for eco-friendly products.

Innovative Applications by Leading Companies 

Several companies have harnessed the potential of pea protein to develop innovative products: 

Puris: A key player in the pea protein industry, Puris is a family-owned business that began as a seed supplier for farmers and now integrates its products vertically across the entire supply chain. Puris supplies high-quality pea protein ingredients for various applications, including plant-based meats and beverages. AcreMade is Puris’s plant-based egg product, made entirely from their proprietary pea protein blend.  

Ripple Foods: Specializing in dairy alternatives, Ripple Foods utilizes pea protein to produce milk, yogurt, and other products that offer high protein content without the allergens associated with traditional dairy.  

Beyond Meat: A pioneer in plant-based meat alternatives, Beyond Meat utilizes pea protein as it’s main protein base to replicate the texture and taste of animal-based meats, appealing to both vegetarians and meat-eaters. 

Abbot’s Butcher: Abbot’s Butcher has one of the cleanest labels for a meat alternative, featuring little more than pea protein and spices. Offering SKUs such as ground beef, chorizo and seasoned chicken strips, this versatile protein is a great option for natural and conventional retailers to stock for allergy-sensitive customers. Abbott’s was the protein of choice for QSR giant Chipotle when they trialed their plant-based chorizo. 

 

With continuous advancements in food technology and a growing consumer base seeking sustainable and health-conscious options, pea protein is set to play a pivotal role in the future of food innovation. 

Juicy Marbles: Europe’s Plant-Based Whole-Cut Pioneer Enters the US Market 

Written by Benjamin Davis on . Posted in Global Marketplace, Manufacturing, Products, Retail.

Slovenian startup Juicy Marbles, a leader in the plant-based whole-cut meat category, has announced its highly anticipated entry into the U.S. retail market. Known for their high-end filet mignon steaks, loins, and baby back ribs, Juicy Marbles is redefining the boundaries of what plant-based meat can be. 

The company’s expansion builds on its success in Europe, where its products are sold in 3,500 stores across major retailers like Tesco, Sainsbury, and Whole Foods. With plans to secure profitability by the end of 2025, Juicy Marbles is not only a brand to watch but also a key player in the global evolution of plant-based foods. 

 

A Pioneer in Whole-Cut Plant-Based Innovation 

Juicy Marbles has distinguished itself in the plant-based market by focusing on whole cuts—a category often considered the “holy grail” of plant-based meat. Using a proprietary extrusion-like process, the company replicates the texture and fibers of animal meat while injecting fat and adding color to create a realistic steak experience. 

“Our products deliver the premium, indulgent experience that consumers crave, without the ethical and environmental trade-offs of traditional meat,” said CEO Tilen Travnik. 

 

Why the U.S. Market Matters 

While Juicy Marbles has built a strong following in Europe, its U.S. expansion signals a new chapter for the brand. A pivotal moment came when the company was mentioned in the Netflix documentary You Are What You Eat, which doubled their online revenue in the U.S. However, Travnik recognizes the challenges of scaling online sales in the U.S. due to the high costs of temperature-controlled shipping. 

The company has secured a key U.S. distributor and aims to make its products widely available in retail stores this year. “In the U.S., our customers range from hardcore vegans to flexitarians, and even meat eaters looking for premium plant-based alternatives,” noted Travnik. 

 

A New Product for Accessibility 

To broaden its appeal, Juicy Marbles is developing a new product at a lower price point. “We want to retain the features consumers love while manufacturing more efficiently,” explained Travnik. This move aligns with the company’s strategy to expand its consumer base while maintaining its high-quality standards. 

 

Collaboration and the Future of Plant-Based Meat 

Juicy Marbles is also exploring hybrid approaches to plant-based meat, collaborating with precision fermentation and cell culture startups. The goal is to integrate these technologies to enhance the flavor and functionality of their products. “The future of plant-based meat is hybrid,” said Travnik. “Plant-based will form the bulk, with precision fermentation and cell culture adding functional components.” 

 

Positioning in a Changing Market 

As the plant-based industry matures, Juicy Marbles is navigating what Travnik calls the “trough of disillusionment,” where consumers are demanding higher-quality products. By delivering premium experiences, the brand is poised to not just survive but thrive, even as market growth stabilizes. 

 

What to Expect in 2025 

With its U.S. retail launch, a pipeline of innovative products, and a commitment to redefining plant-based whole cuts, Juicy Marbles is setting the stage for a transformative year. Retailers stocking their products will offer consumers an experience that bridges the gap between indulgence and sustainability. 

Juicy Marbles’ bold expansion into the U.S. highlights the growing importance of whole-cut plant-based meats as a cornerstone of the future food landscape.