Meala FoodTech partners DSM-Firmenich to launch new pea protein for meat alternatives

ISRAEL – Meala FoodTech Ltd. is teaming up with dsm-firmenich to introduce Vertis™ PB Pea, a new pea-based protein ingredient targeting the plant-based meat sector in Europe.

The product is a multifunctional texturizer made from pea protein, developed to replace modified binders and hydrocolloids commonly found in meat alternatives.

Produced using biotechnology and covered by two patents, Vertis™ PB Pea combines the functions of several ingredients into one, aiming to streamline product formulations.

The ingredient has been designed to improve binding, emulsification, and gelation while also boosting protein content in end products.

According to Meala, Vertis™ PB Pea allows manufacturers to simplify their ingredient lists, removing the need for multiple texturizing agents.

The ingredient has already undergone testing in various meat alternative applications including burgers, sausages, and nuggets.

In addition to functional benefits, the product is labeled simply as “pea protein” and contains no common allergens.

Its thermostability makes it suitable for both high-heat cooking and cold storage, broadening its range of uses in prepared foods.

Meala says the ingredient also retains water well, helping to improve juiciness and mouthfeel in finished products.

This development comes as food manufacturers face increasing demand for cleaner and shorter ingredient lists from health-conscious consumers.

A study by the EIT Food Consumer Observatory found that 67% of Europeans are uncomfortable with unfamiliar ingredients, and 56% actively avoid processed foods.

This shift in consumer sentiment is prompting companies to rework product formulas, especially in the plant-based category.

With the launch of Vertis™ PB Pea, dsm-firmenich is expanding its existing Vertis™ line of plant proteins for the European market.

The agreement between Meala and dsm-firmenich covers both distribution and investment, with the aim of expanding the ingredient’s global reach.

Meala’s production for Vertis™ PB Pea is already underway in Europe, with plans to increase capacity in response to growing demand.

Hadar Ekhoiz Razmovich, CEO of Meala FoodTech, said that the collaboration benefits from dsm-firmenich’s extensive experience in product development and market rollout.

She added that the partnership has helped scale Meala’s technology and bring the product to market more efficiently.

The companies plan to offer Vertis™ PB Pea to manufacturers looking for alternatives to processed additives in meat-free products.

Meala says the ingredient is positioned to meet both nutritional and sensory expectations without compromising label transparency.

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