The specialty ingredients and chemicals global solution provider Univar Solutions already distributes some of ICL’s s Rovitaris food ingredients, phosphates and other solutions and now plans to ramp up the collaboration by distributing ICL’s Rovitaris textured plant proteins in North America. 

“Not only does this arrangement provide us broader product representation with a strategic supplier, but it also enhances our food portfolio with complimentary protein products and enables us to support meat alternative food producers better,” says Kevin Hack, global vice president of food ingredients at Univar Solutions.

“Both ICL and Univar Solutions are dedicated to improving sustainable food options and are an essential part of the global food supply chain,” he adds.

Driving plant-based innovation
Univar highlights that plant-based foods have also shaped new food trends, satisfied new diets and changed taste preferences. It further says that food brands, small and big, are turning to the company’s Foodology for food solutions.

Launched last year, Univar’s Foodology comprises an expert team focused on the distribution and technical innovation solutions of food and nutritional ingredients and acceleration of food products to market.

The portfolio of ICL’s Rovitaris includes vegan food applications such as proteins that provide texture, flavor and stability, such as plant-based milks and burgers.The segment offers information on the formulation and technical expertise in specific food items such as snacks, dairy, bakery, poultry and meat.

Univar highlights that the organization’s in-house scientists “refresh and develop formulas to enhance the efficacy of products through its food solution centers and test kitchens while working toward the company’s mission of keeping people healthy, fed, clean and safe.”

“We work closely with customers to come up with the next innovative solution they want to offer to the market. We’ve got a starter recipe that we can offer for whatever that space is and one that is trend relevant, whether it be high fiber, low sugar, plant-based,” Hack previously told FoodIngredientsFirst.

The portfolio of ICL’s Rovitaris includes vegan food applications such as proteins that provide texture, flavor and stability, such as plant-based milks and burgers. 

“Solutions to humanity’s challenges”
Univar affirms that sustainability in the food industry is “more integral than ever” as it impacts many consumers’ buying decisions. 

“ICL has more than a century of experience, and we are committed to creating impactful solutions to humanity’s sustainability challenges in the global food markets,” adds Paul Petersen, global alternative proteins leader for ICL.

“We contribute to food security through a broad array of innovative solutions, including sustainable fertilizers, alternative proteins, and other products, which reduce food waste by enabling a longer shelf life,” he adds.

Last year, ICL partnered with Arkeon to support scaling its fermentation bioprocess that converts CO2 into the 20 proteinogenic essential amino acids needed in human nutrition.