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In an exciting collaboration, Protein Industries Canada (PIC) and Innovate UK have committed CAD 5.7 million (approximately $4 million USD) to advance two key projects in the plant-based protein sector.
This investment will focus on developing sustainable, plant-based solutions for both pet and human nutrition, with a particular emphasis on the incorporation of animal-free collagen into food products.
Pioneering Sustainable Pet Nutrition
One of the primary projects funded by this partnership will see the creation of a new line of plant-based dog chews that utilize animal-free collagen from Liven Proteins, a Canadian sustainable ingredient company.
These chews will be marketed through Juicy Marbles, a plant-based meat brand.
This initiative aims to provide pet owners with ethical, sustainable alternatives to traditional animal-based pet treats, helping meet the growing demand for more environmentally conscious pet products.
The collaboration also involves ALT-PRO Advantage, a pet food startup, and UK-based Formidable Foods, along with New Wave Biotech, a bio manufacturing technology firm.
These companies will work together to refine the bio manufacturing processes needed to produce animal-free collagen at scale, a key ingredient that could revolutionize pet and human food products.
A Strong Investment in Plant-Based Protein Innovation
With CAD 851,723 ($605.4K USD) from Protein Industries Canada, and over CAD 1 million ($712K USD) in consortium contributions, this initiative is poised to drive cutting-edge research and innovation in plant-based food technologies.
As the demand for sustainable and cruelty-free products continues to rise, the project aims to provide nutritionally viable alternatives to animal-derived proteins, benefiting both the pet food industry and the broader food market.
Transforming the Future of Pet Nutrition
This initiative is part of a larger global trend toward plant-based nutrition.
With environmental concerns and animal welfare at the forefront, the animal-free collagen being developed in this project has the potential to become a game-changer in both pet food and human food markets, offering a healthier and more ethical option for consumers and their pets.
