Burcon NutraScience Corp (TSX:BU, NASDAQ:BRCN) announced that it has developed an economical, scalable process to extract high-purity protein ingredients from sunflower seeds for use in foods and beverages.
The developer of plant-based proteins for foods and beverages said its sunflower protein isolate sets new benchmark for the next generation of high-quality, clean-label plant-based protein ingredients.
“This latest development further validates Burcon as a global technology innovator in sustainable protein ingredients, leveraging its leading-edge expertise to create significant value in the global food supply chain,” Burcon NutraScience interim CEO Peter Kappel said in a statement.
READ: Burcon NutraScience updates on funding and progress for its Merit Functional Foods JV
“A source of clean-label, plant-based protein that offers excellent taste and texture is exactly what food and beverage product formulators are seeking,” Kappel added.
Burcon noted that by leveraging its core protein technology platform and expertise, it has developed a proprietary extraction and purification process to convert sunflower meal, a by-product of the production of sunflower oil, into high-quality sunflower protein isolates that feature a neutral taste and off-white color.
It added that these unique properties make them ideal for use in a variety of valuable food applications, in particular those featuring delicate flavors.
As well, the company said it is collaborating with Pristine Gourmet, a processor of 100% pure Canadian, non- genetically modified organism (GMO) cold-pressed virgin oils, to further optimize Burcon's novel sunflower protein technology.
The parties are working together under a previously-announced C$1 million project that included a co-investment from Protein Industries Canada, according to the company.
In addition, Burcon said it intends to develop ideal food and beverage applications for its unique sunflower protein isolate while establishing a market for this new class of plant-based protein ingredients.
Burcon NutraScience is a global technology leader in the development of plant-based proteins for foods and beverages. With over two decades of experience formulating high-purity proteins that have superior functionality, taste and nutrition, Burcon has amassed a patent portfolio covering its plant-based proteins derived from peas, canola, soy, hemp, sunflower seeds, and other plant sources.
Contact Sean at sean@proactiveinvestors.com