Nestlé recently announced a new collaboration with Burcon and Merit, two key players in the development and production of high-quality plant proteins, that will enable Nestlé to further accelerate the development of plant-based meat alternatives and dairy alternatives.

The company said the partnership combines its expertise in the development, production and commercialization of plant-based foods and beverages with Burcon’s proprietary plant protein extraction and purification technology while leveraging Merit’s state-of-the-art plant protein production capabilities.

"Developing nutritious and great-tasting plant-based meat and dairy alternatives requires access to tasty, nutritious and sustainable raw materials as well as proprietary manufacturing technology," Nestlé chief technology officer Stefan Palzer said. "The partnership with Burcon and Merit will give us access to unique expertise and a new range of high-quality ingredients for plant-based food and beverages."

Globally, Nestlé has around 300 research and development (R&D)  scientists, engineers and product developers located in eight R&D centers that are dedicated to plant-based product R&D. To complement its internal capabilities, the company also strategically collaborates with researchers, suppliers, startups and various other innovation partners.

Nestlé’s plant-based product range includes pea-, soy- and wheat-based burger patties, sausages, mince meat, chicken filets and various prepared dishes. The company also developed pea- and oat-based dairy alternatives, almond-, coconut- and oat-based creamers, plant-based coffee mixes as well as a range of non-dairy ice cream. It recently announced plans to launch vegan alternatives to cheese and bacon as a complement to its existing plant-based burger patties.

Burcon Nutrascience is a global technology leader with a portfolio of patents related to the composition, application and manufacturing of novel plant-based proteins derived from peas, canola, soy, hemp, sunflower seeds and various other crops.

Established in 2019, Merit Functional Foods provides high-quality protein ingredients and blends that offer purity, exceptional taste and excellent solubility.