Tofurky and Triton Algae Innovations are collaborating to bring new algae-based meat innovations to the North American market, set to be available in retail stores by the first quarter of 2022, and will be jointly marketed under the Tofurky and Triton brands.
Tofurky reported a huge spike in sales orders last Thanksgiving, which corresponded to the company’s largest annual increase since 2015. The company stated that it was unable to keep up with production capabilities to meet demand. Just in time for Thanksgiving this year, comes the collaboration with Triton; as demand is predicted to be even higher than last year as the plant-based category continues to become more popular.
Triton’s “essential red” algae, which is rich in protein, Vitamin A and iron, is set to be an important component in future new product formulas, as algae and microalgae ingredients continue to trend for their sustainability benefits. Triton has developed a process that selects and cultivates strains of non-GMO whole red algae, to grow varieties containing the right protein and Omega-3 for plant-based meats.
“We are very excited to partner with Triton and explore what can be made possible with algae” said Jaime Athos, president and CEO of Tofurky. “This is a unique and timely opportunity for us to combine our knowledge and understanding of the plant-based market with the nutrition and one-of-a-kind natural supply-chain technology created by Triton’s algae. While we can’t share what it is just yet, the result will entail products that resonate with our core audience, and also be attractive to the rapidly growing segment of new flexitarians increasingly drawn to plant-based foods.”
“Triton’s focus to date has been primarily on introducing brand new and better-for-you food ingredients to manufacturers,” said Xun Wang, CEO of Triton Algae Innovations. “This collaboration with Tofurky is an ideal platform for introducing these algae elements in a finished product directly to the consumer market. We’re honored to work with such a prestigious and well-known established player in the vegan food space. This is a win all around for both of our companies and particularly for the consumer.”
