Ingredion investment to unlock consumer appeal for protein-rich chickpeas
InnovoPro creates chickpea protein products that are sustainable, clean label and provide neutral taste while preserving nutritional value, functionality and desirable texture. The Ra'anana-based company – founded by Dr Ascher Shmulewitz – is targeting the global protein space, which is searching for new ideas and sustainable alternatives beyond soy, pea and other traditional proteins.
Chickpeas – with their functional, nutritional and sustainable backstory – are fulfilling that brief. In fact, a recent proprietary consumer research study by Ingredion showed that chickpea ranked highly for awareness and perceived healthiness.
“We believe this investment will unlock huge consumer appeal for chickpea protein concentrates. InnovoPro has a strong portfolio of chickpea solutions and we are excited about the potential for the new applications,” said Michael Natale, global leader of Ingredion’s plant-based protein platform.
“InnovoPro is a recognised innovator in the food industry and together, we are poised to breakthrough with great tasting and functional chickpea solutions.”
Next-gen protein
InnovoPro’s recently launched CP-PRO 70 is the next-generation protein, offering a highly nutrition and function gluten-free concentrate with a neutral taste.
Chickpea’s functional characteristics, such as water and fat binding, help manufacturers to create a desirable, rich mouthfeel, while its neutral taste enables its use in many applications.
The plant-based solution also has an excellent nutritional profile and ‘free from’ properties.
“We are looking forward to this great partnership with Ingredion,” said Taly Nechushtan, CEO of InnovoPro.
“In the years ahead, we intend to significantly increase our growth trajectory as we are transforming to a platform of chickpea ingredients. Based on our unique chickpea protein, we now offer a variety of solutions that allow us to expand from dairy alternatives to additional markets, such as meat analogues, egg replacers, and more, to inspire consumers with healthier and tastier solutions.”
