Planteneers introduces methylcellulose-free texturizing blend for plant-based foods

Planteneers has unveiled a new methylcellulose-free texturizing system, expanding its portfolio of plant-based ingredient solutions to meet rising consumer demand for cleaner and more recognizable food labels. The new blend, launched on 20 May, is designed to provide the desired texture and bite in plant-based foods without relying on methylcellulose, an additive that many consumers now view with increasing skepticism.

“Consumers are becoming more critical of ingredients like methylcellulose in plant-based alternatives, as it’s often seen as a synthetic additive rather than a food ingredient you’d find in a home kitchen,” commented Dr Dorotea Pein, Director of Technology & Innovation and head of Planteneers’ Research & Development team. “With the rise of new, innovative plant-based proteins that can replicate the desired texture and bite without the need for such additives, there’s a growing expectation for cleaner formulations. People want to feel good about what they’re eating – not just nutritionally, but also emotionally and ethically – and that starts with recognizing and trusting every ingredient on the label.”

The newly developed system incorporates a functional yeast protein alongside carefully selected ingredients, blended using an optimized process that is compatible with standard food production machinery. This enables brands to integrate the solution without requiring significant changes to existing operations. It is suitable for both hot and cold applications, maintaining product quality and consistency while avoiding the use of methylcellulose.

Planteneers’ innovation comes as consumers and brands alike are re-evaluating ingredient choices in the alternative protein sector. Methylcellulose has traditionally been used to improve texture and stability in plant-based meats, but its chemical-sounding name and synthetic origin have raised concerns among increasingly ingredient-conscious shoppers.

Brian Walker, CEO of Planteneers LLC, emphasized the company’s commitment to staying aligned with evolving consumer expectations. “Integrating the voice of the consumer into our plant-based product development is an important value we offer to the market and is a high priority,” he said. “We are excited to have now added methylcellulose-free solutions for certain applications to our portfolio of texturizing solutions. This is a significant step forward in the evolution of plant-based products in the US market.”