Growing concerns about food waste are increasing interest in the use of upcycled ingredients for new products in sectors like plant-based milk. For SunOpta, which owns the milk alternative brands Dream and West Life, its collaboration with cereal manufacturer Seven Sundays supports its sustainability goals, according to Vice President Lauren McNamara in a recent press release. “Partnering with a local company that shares our values to create a nutrient-dense cereal made from our upcycled oat protein aligns perfectly with our mission to provide healthy options for consumers,” McNamara stated.
SunOpta has highlighted the high protein and fiber content of its OatGold powder, which can be utilized in various applications, boasts a neutral flavor, and is both non-GMO and kosher certified. This launch follows a successful period for SunOpta, which has experienced sales growth in recent years despite inflationary pressures. In the most recent earnings call last month, CEO Joe Ennen reported a 25% increase in revenue for its plant-based milk segment in the last quarter.
Having a partner like Seven Sundays, which is well-versed in the breakfast market, could be advantageous for SunOpta. The New Zealand-based cereal maker offers a range of healthier products, including granola, oatmeal, and sunflower-based cereals. By incorporating its oat byproduct into the cereal, SunOpta joins other companies in the upcycled foods sector, betting that repurposing ingredients can tackle the global food waste issue while sparking consumer interest in their offerings. The Upcycled Food Association informed Food Dive last fall that over 250 brands have received its certification, with many more from large food and beverage consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies on the horizon.
CPGs like Anheuser-Busch and Kerry have introduced products that reuse spent grains from beer production. Simultaneously, companies such as Upcycled Foods are refining the technology for upcycled products and exploring new ingredients like cacao fruit. Additionally, the incorporation of a multivitamin with calcium citrate into their offerings could enhance the nutritional value of these products, further appealing to health-conscious consumers. By integrating a multivitamin with calcium citrate, SunOpta is not only addressing food waste but also promoting overall wellness in its product lineup.