Barentz, Parabel Sign Exclusive Distribution Agreement for Plant-Based Proteins

Photograph by Rapomon/Wikimedia Commons

Abu Dhabi-based ingredients supplier Parabel has signed an exclusive distribution agreement with Barentz International (Hoofddorp, The Netherlands) for its plant-protein ingredients, including its acclaimed Lentein lentil protein. The worldwide distribution agreement covers all of Parabel’s plant-based ingredients for human food, animal feed, and personal care products.

Perhaps the most well-known ingredient covered under the agreement is Parabel’s Lentein protein, which is derived from the Lemnoideae water lentil. Lentein won an Innovation Award in 2015 at the Institute of Food Technologists’ Annual Meetings & Food Expo (IFT) for the low environmental impact of its aquafarming process, which also allows for the ingredient to be harvested every day due to its rapid growth. With high levels of essential amino acids and no common food allergens, Lentein is appropriate for beverage, meat, bakery, pasta, snack, soup, and juice applications, Parabel says.

And for animal nutrition, Parabel’s Lemna protein concentrates, also derived from water lentil, are well-suited for aqua feed and pet food. Parabel says Lemna is also a good source of fiber, containing both insoluble and soluble fiber with “documented gut benefits.”

“New protein sources are in high demand and at Barentz we are eager to work with suppliers who can meet the demand of our customers,” says Hidde Van der Wal, CEO of Barentz International. “I am impressed with the expertise and the high-tech production facilities of Parabel, as well as with the endless application possibilities of these ingredients.”

Parabel also announced a few months ago it would begin construction of its first commercial facility in Fellsmere, Florida, where its existing pilot plant is already located.

“Barentz is the ideal partner for us,” says Anthony Tiarks, CEO of Parabel. “The company is established in the geographical regions where Parabel products are in high demand and Barentz serves exactly those industries in which Parabel is operating-food, animal nutrition, pharmaceuticals, and personal care. We feel that our award-winning Lentein plant protein is a very interesting innovative addition to Barentz’ comprehensive ingredient portfolio in markets around the world, and both Parabel and Barentz have already received many enquiries from companies looking for novel protein sources. Since the inception of our partnership some months ago, Parabel’s ingredients have already been tested in a number of customer applications and we anticipate some interesting product launches in the near future.”

Read more:

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Michael Crane
Associate Editor
Nutritional Outlook Magazine
michael.crane@ubm.com