The Smart Proteins Summit is recognised as a premier event for alternative protein sources and pioneering food technology. On November 5, 2024, food enthusiasts and industry leaders from business, politics, and associations gathered in Frankfurt/Main to discuss the latest in plant-based proteins, meat alternatives, and textured vegetable proteins (TVPs).

As an official event partner and expert in TVPs, Erbacher Food Intelligence participated with its own booth. Erbacher representatives Jasmin Lebold and Felix Weykenat share their experiences from the event.

Jasmin Lebold: “Plant-based protein sources, particularly TVPs, are becoming increasingly important. We see TVPs as an exciting and competitive field, especially for our contract manufacturing services. The Summit provided us with a valuable opportunity to explore new avenues in this sector.”

Felix Weykenat: “As contract manufacturers of custom extrudates and textured products, we’ve been focusing on plant-based proteins. We also handle raw material procurement, offering an extensive range. Given the rising demand for TVPs as a foundation for meat substitutes, participating in the Summit was a natural step, allowing us to connect with experts in the vegan and vegetarian protein space and establish our position in the market.”

Jasmin Lebold: “We designed a compact yet informative booth showcasing essential information and samples of our diverse TVPs and extrudates. Visitors could explore the range of textures and granulations we offer across different plant protein sources.”

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Felix Weykenat: “Yes, the booth was packed with insights into our portfolio. Visitors could see firsthand the flexibility we offer in terms of texture and granulation to meet varied product requirements as a contract manufacturing partner.”

Jasmin Lebold: “Our solutions are especially appealing to raw material suppliers looking to enter or specialise in the TVP sector. B2B clients who utilise our textured products as a basis for meat substitutes can also benefit from our expertise.”

Felix Weykenat: “Erbacher Food Intelligence’s TVP products are a reliable and innovative option for companies focusing on plant-based proteins, particularly as meat substitutes. We offer customised texturates to meet specific processing and production needs.”

Jasmin Lebold: “I was especially impressed by the presentations detailing market trends and consumer demand in the plant-based protein and meat substitute sectors. Conversations with potential clients provided valuable insight into the evolving needs of the industry.”

Felix Weykenat: “For me, the panel discussions were invaluable. Connecting directly with other experts to discuss strategies and innovations was inspiring. One-on-one conversations also yielded interesting insights and new ideas.”

Jasmin Lebold: “We expect moderate growth in demand for meat substitutes, with private label brands experiencing the strongest increase, while brand-name products see only slight growth. At the same time, price sensitivity among consumers is intensifying.”

Felix Weykenat: “Yes, the market remains dynamic, with consumer price sensitivity playing an increasingly important role. Private label brands are gaining market share because they are often more affordable. This trend was reinforced in various Summit presentations.”

Jasmin Lebold: “A major takeaway is the pressure on established brands as new private labels enter the market. Both market leaders and private labels will need to prioritise innovation to stay competitive.”

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Felix Weykenat: “Absolutely, many new private labels are now focusing on high-quality products and gaining a solid market position. It’s increasingly essential to deliver real added value to customers through innovation and tailored solutions – a core focus for us at Erbacher Food Intelligence.”