UK’s first potato protein extraction factory set to open

The UK’s first potato protein extraction plant, which converts low-grade potatoes into high-value plant-based protein, is set to open this summer in Lincoln.

Developed by Agritech R&D business B-hive Innovations, in collaboration with potato supplier Branston, the novel £6.3m facility runs under the new company name of RootExtracts.

The first of its kind factory extracts food-grade functional protein from low-grade potatoes and peeling pulp into a clean-label protein destined for the vegetarian and vegan market.

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Based at Branston’s headquarters in Lincolnshire, the factory hopes to sustainably meet the growing demand for UK-grown plant-based food ingredients and incorporate novel technologies as part of a collaborative project to improve potato crop utilisation.

“Our unique extraction process takes a low-value food product and transforms it into a high-value food ingredient.

“That’s why we’re delighted to have developed a process to support sustainability and improve crop utilisation within the potato industry,” says Vidyanath Gururajan, managing director at B-Hive Innovations.

He continues that many plant-based foods are currently imported and heavily processed, which comes with added carbon footprint and environmental issues.

“By extracting protein from potatoes grown in the UK, we are creating a natural plant-based protein product, which is both produced and manufactured in the UK.

“This effectively reduces food miles and carbon footprints and increases food utilisation,” he says.

During the extraction process, a starch-based by-product is also produced,  bringing further potential as this can be used in a range of food products.

“We are very grateful to Innovate UK for helping fund the project during its initial stages and the partners that have worked with us to scale up the project,” he concludes.

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