Royal DSM has launched Vertis Textured Pea Canola Protein, which it reports is the first textured plant protein that contains all necessary levels of the nine essential amino acids, and is soy-free, gluten-free, and dairy-free.
 
Vertis is designed for nutritionally appealing meat alternative and plant-forward products, with a more meat-like texture that is in demand with consumers. The ingredient requires a short hydration time, has good processing capabilities, and supports low-fat and low-salt formulations, according to DSM.
 
Vertis Textured Pea Canola Protein contains pea protein as well as the company’s Vertis CanolaPRO protein isolate, which was also launched recently. The new canola ingredient allows for brands to create meat analogues and other plant-based foods that offer allergen-free complete protein.
 
The protein can also be combined with other DSM ingredients, such as its vegan EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids to enable appealing front-of-pack health claims without impacting the marine ecosystem, as well as a range of vitamin and mineral premixes to target various micronutrient gaps.
 
The combination of pea and canola proteins helps to create a meat-like texture with a firm and springy bite and appealing mouthfeel, DSM reports, and the ingredient imparts savory background notes that blend with other flavors. The ingredient is suitable for a number of meat applications including lasagnas, Bolognese sauces, tacos, and a shredded format for burgers and meatballs.
 
“It’s an exciting time for the plant-based alternatives market and I’m incredibly proud of the team for continuing to push the boundaries of what’s possible in this category,” said Samah Garringer, Business Unit Director, Proteins of the Future at DSM. “This world first in textured vegetable proteins will help manufacturers create nutritious, delicious and sustainable plant-based food and beverages. By providing a complete source of protein that is free from all major allergens, brands can appeal to the modern flexitarian consumer who wants to include a diverse range of proteins in their diet, without compromising on nutritional value. At the heart of all our initiatives at DSM is looking after people and our planet. This is exemplified throughout our Vertis plant proteins which are produced with minimal waste and environmental impact, making them a sustainable and, crucially, scalable solution.”