Happy Ocean Foods shifts gears with launch of Clean Protein System

After five years making waves in the plant-based seafood space, Happy Ocean Foods has announced a major pivot. The Munich-based company is shelving its range of fish alternatives to focus entirely on a new line of functional protein ingredients tailored for modern foodservice.

Launched last week, the Clean Protein System marks a new chapter for the startup. Rather than mimicking fish or meat, Happy Ocean Foods is doubling down on plant-based innovation with a focus on performance, versatility, and nutrition.

“We’re not trying to imitate. We’re here to innovate,” the company stated. “That’s why we focus on protein, not substitutes.”

The Clean Protein System currently includes two core formats:

Clean Protein Ocean Touch – Flakes are ready-to-use flakes, which have a light ocean flavor, enriched with microalgae oil to deliver Omega-3s DHA and EPA. They’re based on pea protein and rice flour, and available in Natural and Lemon-Herbs varieties. Suitable for use both hot and cold, they’re designed to slot easily into bowls, salads, wraps, and more.

The Clean Protein Umami Touch – Cubes are aimed at warm dishes. The Umami Touch cubes offer a meaty bite, 22g of protein, and added vitamin B12. Made from pea and fava bean proteins, they’re available in Spicy and Mediterranean flavors.

With a strong background in wet extrusion and functional protein blending, Happy Ocean Foods is positioning its new Clean Protein range as a scalable solution for foodservice operators looking for allergen-free, high-performance protein components.

“Our products are made to simplify kitchen processes while maximizing flavor, texture and nutritional value,” the company said, emphasizing speed, modularity, and creativity in professional kitchens.

The company’s move reflects a growing trend away from mimicry in plant-based food and toward ingredient-driven innovation. By leveraging microalgae oil, legume proteins, and efficient formats, Happy Ocean Foods aims to carve out a new niche – one where clean-label, functional proteins become core building blocks rather than mere replacements.

“Clean, functional, and delicious food will define the next chapter of plant-based,” the company said. “Let’s build a better protein future – together.”