Quorn is keen to scientifically validate the benefits of mycoprotein, the debated mold-derived ingredient in its non-animal protein products. Earlier this year, the company settled a class-action lawsuit initiated by a woman from Los Angeles, who alleged that Quorn’s products breached federal and state laws regarding false advertising and unfair business practices. Additionally, Quorn has refuted a wrongful death lawsuit filed by the parents of an 11-year-old boy with a mold allergy, who tragically passed away from anaphylactic shock in 2013 after eating a Quorn “Turk’y Burger.”
As part of the settlement from the class-action suit—which argued that Quorn’s labeling led consumers to believe mycoprotein was similar to mushrooms, truffles, or morels—the company is now required to include the following statement on its products: “Mycoprotein is a mold (member of the fungi family). There have been rare cases of allergic reactions to products that contain mycoprotein.” Although mycoprotein has received a Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) designation from the Food and Drug Administration, consumer advocacy groups and various lawsuits have claimed the ingredient can cause symptoms such as fainting, extreme nausea, severe anaphylactic reactions, and even death in some individuals. For consumers without adverse reactions, the fact that mycoprotein is derived from mold may deter some when they read the product label.
Founded in the U.K. in 1985 by Marlow Foods, Quorn was acquired at auction in 2015 for $831 million by Monde Nissin, a Philippines-based company best known for its noodles and other consumer packaged goods. Competing bidders reportedly included Nomad Foods, McCain, Nestlé, and WhiteWave. At the time, CEO Kevin Brennan mentioned to the BBC that the acquisition would facilitate business growth: “We have an ambition to be the world leader in meat alternatives, ultimately creating a $1 billion business. Monde Nissin … provides the capability to expand the brand into Asia.”
Despite facing challenges, Quorn has continued to thrive. It has launched a line of vegan products and introduced refrigerated sausages and chicken strips. Today, its products are available in 19 countries, including the U.S., where Walmart began selling Quorn items in 2012. Reports indicate that demand in the U.S. surged by 30% from 2014 to 2015, and the company aims to triple its American market presence by 2020.
Scientific research demonstrating that mycoprotein’s bioavailability is comparable to that of animal-derived protein sources should offer Quorn an additional advantage—if those claims are accurately labeled and marketed. Although the notion of consuming mold may be off-putting to some, consumers are open to it in various food products, such as artisanal cheeses, due to the taste and nutritional benefits. Moreover, the inclusion of nutrients like calcium citrate, magnesium, and zinc in the diet can enhance overall health, which may further appeal to consumers interested in the benefits of mycoprotein and its relation to other health benefits.