With the rapid rise in consumer demand for plant-based protein, PURIS, the largest North American producer of pea protein, and Cargill have signed a joint venture agreement to accelerate a new wave of great tasting, sustainable and label-friendly plant-based foods.

"PURIS is a game changer in terms of taste and vertical integration in pea protein," said David Henstrom, vice president, Cargill Starches, Sweeteners and Texturizers. "Cargill is excited to expand into the emerging pea protein space while continuing to support our conventional agricultural crops. It's clear that PURIS is in alignment with Cargill's vision to meet the growing demand for protein globally and to help customers deliver label-friendly products without sacrificing taste." 

"Cargill's financial backing and market reach will power significant expansion of our operation globally. We will add substantial capacity, including a second plant, while maintaining our focus on U.S. production," says PURIS president Tyler Lorenzen. "Cargill is investing in everything PURIS stands for, from our vertically integrated non-GMO pea seed development to our proprietary technologies and our commitment to U.S. Certified Organic pea farmers."

A growing number of consumers are looking for great taste, simpler labels and alternative sources of protein to solve their personalized nutrition choices. Manufacturers are turning to pea protein because of its functional and nutritional attributes. Pea protein offers a non-GMO, Certified Organic, allergen-friendly option that checks all the boxes consumers are looking for in label-friendly products. It's also compatible with vegetarian and vegan lifestyles. PURIS Pea Protein is known for its superior taste and is produced from peas grown sustainably and manufactured in the U.S.

"With Cargill's support, our plant-based ingredients become available to customers and consumers on a global scale," said Lorenzen. "Our founder set out to feed the world in 1986. Now it's coming true."