Royal DSM launches canola seed protein isolate for the plant-based food and beverage market

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Royal DSM has launched a canola protein isolate called Vertis CanolaPRO, which the company says is the product of 10 years of research and development to unlock protein from the canola seed and produce it at scale for the food industry. Canola seeds are one of the few plant sources of complete protein. According to DSM, Vertis CanolaPRO does not contain any major allergens, and is highly complementary with proteins from legumes and cereal, helping to fill any gaps in essential amino acid content. With a high digestibility score (DIAAS ≥ 100), and protein digestibility-corrected amino acid score (PDCAAS) of 1, Vertis CanolaPRO is on par with soy or whey. Among the ingredient’s functional benefits, says DMS, is the ability to improve the bite and texture of meat and fish alternatives, as well as creating a smoother mouthfeel in dairy alternatives and performance nutrition products.

DSM also touts the sustainable production of the ingredient. Produced from canola meal, a co-product of canola oil production, Vertis CanolaPRO has a small carbon footprint since no additional arable land is required for its production. The proprietary process used to make Vertis CanolaPRO also uses minimal water use, low temperatures, and no solvents. The ingredient is a joint venture with Avril Group, which is a leading processor and financer in the vegetable oils and proteins sector, based in France, and is produced at a newly constructed facility in Dieppe.