Nestlé explores emerging technologies for animal-free dairy proteins

Nestlé has announced that it’s exploring new technologies to develop animal-free dairy protein-based products. This move is in line with the investments the company has made in plant-based meat and dairy alternative offerings over the years to meet the growing demand for great tasting, nutritious diets that are also environmentally friendly.

The company has established the U.S. R+D Accelerator and plans on piloting a novel product made with animal-free protein from Perfect Day through it later in 2022 as a “test-and-learn.” According to Perfect Day, the protein, which is made through precision fermentation, is identical to whey protein that is found in cow’s milk and offers good nutritional and functionality benefits that is lactose-fee and suitable for vegans.

“As the world’s largest food and beverage company, delivering foods and beverages that are good for people and the planet is a priority. We are exploring emerging technologies that can lead to animal-friendly alternatives that are nutritious and sustainable, without compromising on taste, flavor and texture. Bringing together our unmatched R&D expertise, innovation capabilities and scale, we are working to develop and test novel animal-free dairy protein-based products to complement our wide-ranging portfolio of plant-based alternatives,” said Heike Steiling, Head of Nestlé’s Development Center for dairy products.

Nestlé is aiming to transform its portfolio as part of its commitment to provide good, nutritious food that’s also good for the planet. The company has invested in initiatives to reduce the carbon footprint of dairy, is in the process of launching more plant-based products and is exploring new technologies for animal-free proteins as part of that commitment. Dairy products are still a very important part of that portfolio, as they contribute to the economic livelihoods of farmers all over the world, and they provide essential nutrients, especially for young children.

“We are excited to pilot Nestlé’s first animal-free dairy protein-based products through our U.S. R+D Accelerator,” said Joanna Yarbrough, head of the R+D Accelerator. “While this category is still very young, we know consumers are looking for products that have a reduced environmental footprint, and we are evaluating this avenue as a future growth opportunity for our business.”