Cargill has entered a joint development agreement (JDA) with Renmatix to use the company’s technology for converting unused plant materials into functional food ingredients.
Referred to as the Plantrose process, the new water-based technology will be used with Cargill’s preferred feedstocks. The aim is to make food ingredients that are functional and label-friendly.
Cargill will support the alliance through its expertise in food applications and market access. It aims to gain insights into the technical and commercial aspects of the new ingredients.
Cargill strategy and business development leader Bruce McGoogan said: “Renmatix’s Plantrose Process, which uses only water, heat and pressure, supports our commitment to help customers deliver food and beverage products that are label-friendly, sustainable and cost-effective.
“The fact that this simple process can economically and efficiently deconstruct plant materials and convert them into functional food ingredients is a solution we’re excited to explore in order to help us feed the world.”
The companies will explore the process at Renmatix’s facility in Kennesaw, Georgia, US. Cargill intends to market test the materials with its worldwide customers.
Renmatix CEO Mike Hamilton said: “Upcycling, the process of transforming unused feedstocks into new, higher-value materials, is the next step in creating a more sustainable value chain and generating exciting new product benefits.
“We look forward to working with an industry leader like Cargill to develop new materials that bring these benefits to more food producers.”
In May, Renmatix introduced a multi-functional ingredient called Nouravant. The ingredient was created from plant materials using the Plantrose process.
Cargill opened its first innovation centre in June to address nutrition and food safety needs of its customers.
