A plant-based manufacturer has proclaimed itself the first British company to create what it calls a "holy grail" protein that is "capable of making the perfect blended burger". Blended (also known as hybrid) products contain both plant and animal protein, something that makes them cheaper to produce as well as more environmentally friendly.
While blended products are not a new concept, Myco CEO David Wood says that many fell apart when cooked – or simply didn't pass the taste test. However, he believes Myco's new protein – Hooba – can make the best 50/50 burgers to date.
Says Wood: "We've used Hooba to make 50/50 burgers and the results are staggering. Not only do they hold their shape perfectly, but there's no difference in taste. This... now gives food manufacturers a chance to create products that are more sustainable, more cost-effective and don't sacrifice taste or quality."
Research has shown that the public are not only eating less meat – but that they want to consume even less. A 2021 study revealed that meat consumption had fallen on average by 17 percent in the past decade, while an Eating Better poll the following year found that 61 percent of people in the UK are willing to eat less. However, meat consumption – one of the biggest drivers of greenhouse gas emissions - isn't falling fast enough, a fact that acted as the catalyst for Hooba's creation.
The Hooba is developed at a UK-first vertically farmed site, with every stage of development – from farming and development through to production – done under one roof.
Myco's co-founder, John Shepherd, said the firm has always believed the way of solving the climate crisis is to work with the meat industry – not against it – and that Hooba's unmatched ability to be mixed with animal protein is a shining example of this. "The way forward isn't abstinence, it is about reduction," he added.
"We've always said we don't want to turn the world vegan. Our goal with Hooba is to create a product that makes swapping out meat so easy you don't even have to notice it, and that's why this breakthrough could be a real game-changer." Myco will also be exhibiting at stand E42 at the Plant Based World Expo in London November 13/14.
For more information:
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