Hijos de Rivera, the Xunta de Galicia (through Xesgalicia), and Inproteins are jointly investing €7.5 million to establish Galicia’s first plant dedicated to manufacturing plant-based proteins. Located in Teixeiro-Curtis (A Coruña), the project will receive a total of €18 million in funding, supported by the IGAPE (Galician Institute for Economic Promotion) and Banco Sabadell.
Inproteins will focus on researching, innovating, and producing plant-based protein ingredients. The spent grain from Hijos de Rivera’s beer production will serve as a key raw material, promoting circularity and reducing food waste by converting by-products into proteins, fibres, and other reusable ingredients.
The Xunta de Galicia has prioritized this project, streamlining administrative processes and providing financial instruments. This includes loans, grants from IGAPE, and capital investment through Xesgalicia, totalling €9.5 million.
The plant will use various sources to create plant-based protein ingredients, including brewing byproducts. The initiative reflects a shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and local economic development between Hijos de Rivera, Inproteins, and the Xunta. The Inproteins facility in Teixeiro-Curtis is projected to create around 40 jobs and will incorporate production facilities, a research lab, and a pilot plant, with an opening date slated for late 2026.
The growing market for plant-based proteins is predicted to reach over $31 billion by 2026. The sector is experiencing annual growth of 14%, with plant-based proteins representing 86% of this market. The increased demand for sustainable and healthy alternatives is changing the food industry.
