Solanic protein in demand and thus Avebe increases production

Potato cooperative Avebe is investing €66 million in its innovation and sustainability program. A large part of that amount is spent on protein production. "The strong growth of the vegetable market, in combination with the attractive properties of our potato protein, has led to a shortage of Solanic." And that is why Avebe aims to increase production.

The plant-based food market has boomed in the past two to three years. Potato cooperative Avebe saw the potential much earlier. "We have been extracting protein from potatoes since 2007," says marketing manager Marieke Kanon when asked. The potato protein is marketed under the name 'Solanic' and is frequently sold to companies in the (vegetable) food sector. "The demand from the dairy industry, meat industry and candy producers in particular stands out."

Just like the protein isolate from the fava bean that Cosun presented this week, the potato protein can be used to replace animal ingredients (such as gelatin or milk protein). "Solanic has multiple uses. It can create high nutritional value or improve texture," says Kanon. Bart Pennings, director of business development at Avebe, adds: "For example, we help create a vegan alternative to cheese. With Solanic we can give that alternative the desired texture: from creamy and scoopable to smooth and spreadable or firm and cuttable."

Growing market demand
As mentioned, consumers are increasingly opting for a plant-based alternative. As a result, the demand for Solanic potato protein is also growing. "Solanic potato protein has the lowest carbon footprint compared to other animal and vegetable proteins. The strong growth of the vegetable market, combined with the attractive properties of this potato protein, has led to a shortage in the past few years," says Pennings.

In order to continue to meet the growing market demand, the cooperative is investing €66 million in its innovation and sustainability program this year. "The vast majority of that amount is spent on protein production," says Kanon. "This includes a new production location and drying tower at the location in Gasselternijveen (Drenthe) and Dallmin (Germany). We want to extract the protein for the animal feed industry at the latter location."

The expansion will result in a significant increase in production volume to meet demand. Avebe does not say whether there are other plans for the vegetable market. "We are working on all kinds of cool projects, including in the field of dairy. But I can't tell you more about that right now," Kanon concludes.

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