Wide Open Agriculture Successfully Develops Functionally Enhanced Protein Isolates from Pea and Faba

Wide Open Agriculture Limited (ASX: WOA) has made a significant breakthrough in the development of functionally enhanced protein isolates from both pea and faba using their exclusive proprietary technology. The successful adaptation of their technology has resulted in protein isolates with enhanced gel strength, solubility, and reduced viscosity.

These new protein isolates, developed in WOA’s R&D laboratory and produced in their pilot plant in Perth, Australia, mark a milestone for the company. The functionalized versions offer superior performance in terms of taste, gel strength, solubility, and emulsification, making them ideal for creating high-quality food and beverage products.

The adaptability of WOA’s technology opens up new commercial opportunities, allowing the company to offer enhanced pea and faba proteins to the food industry and provide contract manufacturing services for producers of pea and faba proteins in Europe. With the pea and faba protein markets valued at approximately USD$2.1 billion and USD$56.7 million respectively, the potential for growth and expansion is significant.

The development of these protein isolates is particularly timely given the increasing demand for sustainable plant-based proteins due to climate change, a growing global population, and the scarcity of new agricultural land. WOA’s technology addresses key challenges in food manufacturing associated with plant proteins, such as taste, ingredient compatibility, and the need for additives.

The testing results from WOA’s laboratory demonstrate the improvements in gel strength, texture, stability, and sensory appeal of the new protein isolates. These advancements showcase the company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in the food industry.

The new protein isolates will be showcased at the upcoming Institute of Food Technologists Expo in Chicago, further highlighting WOA’s leadership in the development of functional plant-based proteins. This achievement underscores the company’s dedication to providing cutting-edge solutions for the food industry and meeting the growing demand for sustainable and high-quality protein sources.