ALTERNATIVE PROTEINS

Moving towards sustainable nutrition

Efficient solutions for plant-based protein production

Public awareness of the environmental and health impacts of animal protein consumption is on the rise—and with it, consumer interest in affordable, environmentally responsible alternatives that replicate the appearance, texture and flavor of meat and seafood.

Because of this, the industry has experienced strong demand growth that is expected to continue over the long term. This trend is being driven by product innovation and the sustainability advantages of alternative proteins, including significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and water consumption as well as more efficient land use. They also address the concerns of ethical vegetarians and vegans.

Many food products are already being made from plant-based protein, and are showing up in stores and on restaurant menus worldwide:

  • Minced and shredded/chopped meat equivalents
  • Sausages
  • Meatballs
  • Burgers
  • Bacon strips and bits
  • Chicken pieces, nuggets and patties
  • Seafood substitutes

Cost-effective process solutions for all forms of alternative protein

Coperion solutions are able to produce both types of plant-based protein products consistently and economically, and can be readily reconfigured as needed:Coperion solutions are able to produce both types of plant-based protein products consistently and economically, and can be readily reconfigured as needed:

  • Textured vegetable protein (TVP), supplied to manufacturers as bulk dry ingredients for later rehydration
  • High-moisture meat analogues (HMMA), which are used to produce refrigerated food products directly

Efficient, precise twin-screw extruders are the key technology for both applications. Our industry-leading, integrated cooker-extruders are designed to deliver consistent, accurate results and high throughput with low waste. This, along with ease of cleaning and maintenance, means better hygiene and improved economy—a critical consideration in the drive to make alternative proteins cost-competitive.

Keeping you at the forefront

Coperion expertise sets us apart, enabling you to reduce time-to-market. Our test kitchens can get your production started quickly with standard recipes using a variety of plant proteins including soy, pea, wheat, beans, lentils and other pulses.

Our process solutions are also designed for versatility. We can adapt the solution to accommodate local preferences for form, texture, color and flavor profile. Or, we can work with you to create entirely new products that differentiate your brand.

The Coperion difference

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Complementing your knowledge
We offer deep food industry process expertise along with custom manufacturing and proof-of-concept demonstrations.

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A focus on food safety
All of our technology is designed for ease of maintenance and cleaning, to help ensure rigorous food safety compliance.

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Decades of technology leadership
We’ve been delivering reliable, efficient and flexible twin-screw extruders to food manufacturers worldwide for more than 50 years.

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Get in touch

We take a distinctive approach to the processes that drive manufacturing. Let us know how we can help you achieve your goals for efficiency, productivity and safety.