In this Digital Spotlight, learn about reformulating with plant-based ingredients, adding the Healthy Halo, and affording to be flexible.

One product maker who has cracked the code of exceptionality in the highly frenzied and increasingly crowded field of plant-based protein is Chi Foods, by Imlak’esh Organics, Inc. The makers of plant-based ground pork and pork chorizo analogs was co-founded by Tucker Garrison, and in this rapidly growing universe of plant-based meats, where alternate proteins are the star ingredients, Chi Foods is truly a unique player.

With more than 100,000 internet searches per month for “vegan recipes” and “vegetarian recipes”, it’s clear there is high demand for plant-based meals. The survey found that 52% of adults are vegan-curious and illustrated consumers’ desire for time-saving solutions to preparing plant-forward dishes. In fact, 56% of adults said they want shortcuts to plant-based meals. 

Through its new B2B platform, NotCo is making its artificial intelligence technology available for more food and beverage manufacturers seeking to create best-in-class and scalable plant-based products. In addition to delivering a superior eating experience, NotCo’s artificial intelligence offers the added benefits of extreme accuracy and speed, cutting R&D development timelines down to mere months compared to what traditionally has taken years.

"As demand for vegan cheese continues to grow, many consumers have been vocal about how difficult it has been to find a plant-based cheese that lives up to their expectations," said David Cherrie, Saputo Dairy USA vice president, marketing and innovation.