Formerly known as 3F Bio, Enough, based in Glasgow, Scotland, produces the Abunda myco-protein using a zero-waste fermentation process where natural fungi are fed with renewable feedstock, such as wheat and corn. Abunda is described as a “complete food ingredient containing all essential amino acids, as well as being high in dietary fibre”.
The Ben & Jerry’s and Marmite brands owner said the myco-protein is a natural fit for its meat-alternative brand The Vegetarian Butcher, which is now sold in 45 countries across four continents and is used by fast-food chain Burger King for products such as the Plant-Based Whopper.
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Carla Hilhorst, EVP of R&D for foods & refreshment at Unilever, said: “Plant-based foods are one of Unilever’s fastest-growing segments and we’re delighted to partner with Enough to develop more sustainable protein products that are delicious, nutritious and a force for good.
“We’re excited by the potential that this technology has for future innovations across our portfolio and we can’t wait to launch more plant-based foods that help people cut down on meat, without compromising on taste.”
Unilever added the partnership with Enough will “contribute towards its annual global sales target of EUR1bn (US$1.22bn) from plant-based meat and dairy alternatives by 2025-2027.
Andrew Beasley, commercial director of Enough, said: “Producing vast quantities of healthy and sustainable protein is one of the most urgent global priorities. There’s a rapid transition in the food industry and we are excited with this collaboration with Unilever and The Vegetarian Butcher, which truly supports our aim to create impact and scale.”
In November, 3F Bio – as it was then – signed a similar partnership deal with UK retailer Marks & Spencer, which sells plant-based products under its Plant Kitchen brand.
