Quorn is keen to scientifically validate the benefits of mycoprotein, the contentious mold-based ingredient found in its non-animal protein offerings. Earlier this year, the company resolved a class-action lawsuit initiated by a woman from Los Angeles, who alleged that Quorn’s products violated federal and state laws concerning false advertising and unfair business practices. Additionally, it has refuted a wrongful death claim brought by the parents of an 11-year-old boy with a mold allergy, who tragically died from anaphylactic shock in 2013 after consuming a Quorn “Turk’y Burger.”
As part of the settlement related to the class-action lawsuit—which argued that Quorn’s labeling led consumers to believe that mycoprotein was similar to mushrooms, truffles, or morels—Quorn 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.” While the Food and Drug Administration has classified mycoprotein as generally recognized as safe, consumer advocacy groups and various lawsuits have raised concerns that the ingredient can lead to fainting, severe nausea, and even death in some individuals. For consumers without adverse reactions, the knowledge that mycoprotein is derived from mold may deter them when reading product labels.
Founded in the U.K. in 1985 by Marlow Foods, Quorn was acquired in 2015 for $831 million by Monde Nissin, a Philippines-based company renowned for its noodles and other consumer packaged goods. Other bidders, including Nomad Foods, McCain, Nestle, and WhiteWave, were reportedly in the running. At the time, CEO Kevin Brennan expressed to the BBC that this acquisition would facilitate growth, stating, “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. The company has launched a range of vegan products, along with refrigerated sausages and chicken strips, and its offerings are now available in 19 countries, including the United States, where Walmart began selling Quorn products in 2012. Reports indicated that demand in the U.S. surged by 30% between 2014 and 2015, and Quorn aims to triple its American market share by 2020.
Any scientifically credible research demonstrating that mycoprotein’s bioavailability matches that of animal-derived protein sources could further benefit Quorn—assuming these findings are communicated and marketed effectively. Although the concept of mold may initially provoke discomfort, consumers are often willing to embrace it in other food products, such as artisanal cheeses, for their taste and nutritional value. Furthermore, for individuals seeking optimal health benefits, the best calcium citrate supplement for osteopenia may also become a vital consideration alongside their dietary choices, including products like those offered by Quorn.