Arvesta starts construction of brand new protein installation in Mettet
Sustainable protein production from local raw materials
Arvesta takes a pioneering step towards sustainable food production and proudly announces the construction start of a state-of-the-art protein installation at the former seed factory in Mettet. This plant will enable the production of high-quality protein concentrates, both for animal and human consumption.
Accelerate protein production
With the delivery and installation of the first components for the new protein installation, Arvesta is taking further steps forward to simultaneously strengthen the profitability of local farmers and accelerate sustainable, local protein production.
Once operational - in the fall of 2024 - the protein installation will be able to produce high-quality protein concentrates from local raw materials, namely peas.
"There is a lot involved in the construction of this protein installation. First, the original seed plant had to be completely converted so that the new installation could be installed. The first parts of the protein installation have since arrived. We plan to have the installation fully 'up and running' this fall. ", says Simon Eyers, Arvesta Director Seeds & Vegetable Protein Concentrates.
Specifically, this plant will be able to produce protein concentrate from local raw materials for animal and human consumption (e.g. snacks, bakery products and vegetarian products). By the way, this is a fully circular process, i.e. nothing goes to waste. The fibers (husks) of the peas are processed in animal feed. The starch is also used in animal feed products. While the extracted protein itself can be used for both human consumption and animal feed.
Promising future
Why we do this? We want to contribute to a promising future in which sustainable protein production is central. This innovative protein plant has many ecological and economic advantages. For example, our new production line will be fully automated and highly efficient with minimal water consumption and no chemical waste.
"We want to encourage local pea production. Peas are the raw material with which the new installation in Mettet produces protein concentrates. Peas are an excellent alternative to imported soy in food and feed. At the same time, we can give the local farmers who produce these peas a better price. This is good news for the planet and for the farmer," concludes Simon Eyers.
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