Plant-protein products usually come with a higher price tag compared to easily available animal protein products. Often, it acts as a barrier to their expansion strategy. According to ConsumerIntel360 analysis, these companies are investing large sums in their R&D to offer the same taste as animal-based products. Moreover, maintaining sustainability, continuous product launches, and promotions also increases the price of these products. Consequently, food tech startups are experimenting with new ingredients to reduce the cost and target a wider consumer base. For instance,
In March 2022, Singapore-based food tech startup Karana, introduced a jackfruit-based meat alternative to target restaurants and foodservice chains in the country. The company has developed a range of meat products from jackfruit. The company also introduced plant-based ground meat and a plant-based version of classic pork gyoza.
Karana used proprietary processes to use the whole plant’s nutrients and natural meat-like qualities to develop this plant-based meat product. Additionally, ingredients such as jackfruit help to maintain the soil health providing a diverse textural and flavor experience for consumption. Apart from being vegan and soy- and gluten-free, the new meat products contain low cholesterol and high fiber and are minimally processed. Also, the jackfruit-based meat alternative has no artificial colors or flavors.
Karana introduced these products into the restaurant market with an additional injection of capital via a seed extension round, which also supports the R&D efforts of the company. Karana’s innovative product will be included for the first time on the menus in San Francisco restaurants in 2022. The company, which expanded its business into Hong Kong in 2021, intends to feature its products in Cantonese cuisine, Nepalese tapas, and Michelin-starred dishes in the coming quarters.
Similarly, in October 2021, a Malaysian firm, Nanka, developed a range of meat patties with the help of jackfruit pulp and blended products. The product is made from jackfruit, mushrooms, potato flour, and textured vegetable protein. Also, the product is free from GMOs, gluten synthetic flavorings, and preservatives.
The company, in particular, is using regionally abundant jackfruit sourced from the country’s Pahang region. This helped the company to keep the product price low which is a prime factor for Malaysians. Moreover, through this product, Nanka is encouraging Malaysians to go for a healthier diet, which means reducing meat as well as avoiding highly-processed fast food.
To know more and gain a deeper understanding of the plant protein industry in the Asia Pacific, click here.
