World’s largest pea protein factory to open in Canada
The 400M Canadian dollar (£250M) plant, in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, is due in open in 2019. It will capitalise on the growing demand for plant-based food ingredients, the family-owned firm said.
The pea protein market is becoming increasingly attractive and demand for plant proteins for human nutrition is growing tremendously, driven by health consciousness, consumer concerns and sustainability, Roquette added.
Pea protein is typically used in gluten-free foods, vegetarian foods, sports and slimming foods, senior nutrition and clinical nutrition.
‘Plant protein specialities market’
Roquette chief executive Jean-Marc Gilson said: “This new site, together with our existing plant in France, confirms Roquette as the long-term leader in the plant protein specialities market.
“It is a great example of how we are helping to meet customer and consumer expectations for innovative and sustainable plant-based products.”
Construction of the site is expected to start in the second half of 2017, subject to the relevant permits being approved. When complete, it is likely to employ around 150 people, most of whom will be recruited locally.
World’s largest pea producer
Canada is claimed to be the world’s largest producer of peas, making up around 30% of total global production.
Headquartered in France, Roquette specialises in making ingredients from plant-based raw materials such as maize, wheat, potatoes and peas.
It operates in more than 100 countries, has a turnover of around €3.3bn and currently employs in the region of 8,000 people worldwide.
