ACI Group expands plant-based protein portfolio with versatile new line

ACI Group has unveiled a new line of plant-based proteins, extending its existing portfolio to meet increasing demand for sustainable and functional ingredients in food manufacturing. The expanded offering includes a broad selection of pea, soy, and wheat proteins, alongside a new blended plant protein concentrate aimed at diverse product formulations.

With consumers increasingly adopting plant-based diets due to environmental and health concerns, manufacturers are under pressure to reformulate or create new products that meet these shifting preferences. ACI Group’s new ingredients are designed to provide flexibility across a wide range of applications, from baked goods and beverages to protein bars and meat alternatives.

"With our new plant-based protein range, we're equipping brands and food manufacturers to create innovative and nutritious products while meeting the rising demand for sustainable food options," commented Trish Fellowes of ACI Group. "From meat alternatives to baked goods, these ingredients offer exceptional versatility and functionality."

The product line includes several variants of pea protein, each formulated to suit different processing and nutritional needs. The isolated pea protein, which contains 83% protein, is positioned for use in drinks, desserts, and bakery applications. For formulations requiring moderate protein levels, ACI offers yellow pea powder (50% protein) and chickpea powder (38% protein). Meanwhile, pea protein nuggets – available in three shapes and with 55% or 70% protein content – are suited for protein bars and confectionery items. Texturized pea protein flakes, containing 74.6% protein, have been developed for use in meat alternative applications requiring a meat-like texture.

Soy protein continues to be a key component of the company’s offering. Isolated soy protein, with a 90% protein concentration, enhances the nutritional content and texture of products such as cakes, brownies, bars, and shakes. Soy protein nuggets in a variety of shapes and protein levels – from 60% to 90%, including cocoa-infused options – are aimed at snack bars, cereals, and other high-protein snacks.

For manufacturers working with wheat protein, ACI’s new range includes texturized wheat flakes with 76.8% and 65.6% protein for meat alternative formulations. Wheat protein crispies, with 65.7% protein, are designed for cereal-based products and as inclusions in confectionery.

In addition to the single-source proteins, ACI has developed a new blended protein concentrate that combines fava bean, yellow pea, sunflower, and wheat proteins. This multi-source blend is formulated to deliver a protein boost in bakery applications such as flatbreads, sub rolls, muffins, baguettes, and cakes. It is designed to simplify formulation and reduce development time for manufacturers seeking both nutritional value and functional performance.

"As consumer interest in plant-based foods accelerates, our expanded portfolio equips brands and food manufacturers with the ingredients they need to deliver healthier, more sustainable products," added Fellowes. "Whether you're formulating meat alternatives, baked goods, or high-protein snacks, our diverse ingredients ensure functionality without compromising taste or quality."

ACI Group says the launch supports its broader strategy to align with market demand for more sustainable food systems. While the company already offers a range of functional ingredients, this latest expansion is intended to reinforce its position as a go-to supplier for food brands seeking to improve their plant-based credentials.

The new product line is now available to ACI Group’s customers in the UK and across Europe. Pricing and availability in other markets may vary depending on regional distribution agreements and regulatory approvals.

At current exchange rates, the ingredients are priced competitively in the market, with costs varying depending on protein content and format. For example, higher protein isolates typically command a premium compared to blended or moderate-protein powders.