Planteneers targets ‘powerhouse protein’ boom with new high-protein plant-based drinks and puddings

Planteneers has launched a trio of new plant-based concepts aimed at meeting growing global demand for protein-enriched foods, as consumers increasingly seek products that combine functionality, indulgence, and plant-based credentials.

The Hamburg-based ingredients specialist reported that three out of five consumers worldwide are increasing their protein intake, citing findings from Innova Trends Survey. Innova Market Insights has identified 'powerhouse protein' as a top trend this year, reflecting a surge in protein-rich product development across categories.

Planteneers’ latest concepts focus on high-protein drinks, meal replacement beverages, and plant-based puddings, targeting manufacturers looking to capture demand in both everyday nutrition and indulgent snacking.

• Planteneers has introduced three new plant-based concepts focused on high-protein drinks, meal replacements, and puddings.
• The beverage system delivered 6% protein and can provide 20% of daily macronutrient needs per 500 ml under EU guidelines.
• The Stern-Wywiol Gruppe reported revenues exceeding €668 million (US$721 million) and employs 1,974 people globally.

In beverages, Planteneers has expanded its fiildDairy NEB series with a plant-based high-protein drink formulated to contain 6% protein, combined with plant-based fiber from inulin. The system uses a combination of hydrocolloids and emulsifiers together with selected proteins from the fiildProt series, derived from fava beans and peas.

The company stated that the high protein content could support on-pack marketing, while the drinks were developed to deliver full flavor across a range of varieties including vanilla, strawberry, and pistachio. The formulations contained no added sugar and were naturally lactose-free. Depending on the recipe, the beverages could contain less than one gram of saturated fatty acids per 100 ml.

Beyond standalone drinks, the same system has been designed to serve as a base for meal replacement beverages. When combined with a micronutrient premix from sister company SternVitamin, the formulation can be used to develop products that align with EU meal replacement guidelines.

Planteneers reported that its system already included all macronutrients in a balanced ratio, so that 500 ml of the final product provided 20% of recommended daily amounts under EU guidance. The SternVitamin premix supplied vitamins and minerals covering 25% of recommended daily micronutrient intake. The company noted that the same base formulation could be used for two product lines and that both could be stored without refrigeration.

The move reflects sustained growth in the meal replacement category, particularly among consumers seeking convenient, protein-forward options that also meet plant-based preferences. By integrating protein, fiber, and micronutrient fortification into a single system, Planteneers has aimed to simplify formulation for manufacturers while supporting nutrition claims.

In desserts, the company has introduced a functional system for plant-based pudding alternatives that can be adapted for both classic and high-protein assortments. The standard version can be formulated with oat, coconut, or soy bases, while the high-protein variant delivers up to 10% protein.

Planteneers confirmed that carrageenan-free versions were available on request. The company reported that the finished products were developed to achieve a creamy texture and authentic taste profile, including established flavors such as chocolate and hazelnut, as well as newer varieties like cookies and salted caramel.

The pudding concept also aligned with another Innova Market Insights trend, 'layers of delight', which focuses on indulgence and sensory experience. According to market research cited in the release, products meeting these criteria recorded 26% growth last year. Planteneers indicated that its systems allowed manufacturers to extend this growth into plant-based formats.

Founded in Ahrensburg, Germany, Planteneers develops custom system solutions for plant-based alternatives to meat, sausage, fish, cheese, dairy, and deli products. The company operates as part of the Stern-Wywiol Gruppe, an independent, owner-operated group comprising 13 sister companies.

Through the group structure, Planteneers has access to around 125 R&D specialists and the Stern Technology Center in Ahrensburg. The Plant Based Competence Center, established in 2019 within the Technology Center, serves as a development hub for alternative protein and dairy solutions.

The Stern-Wywiol Gruppe reported revenues exceeding €668 million (US$721 million) and employs 1,974 people worldwide. The group operates 20 subsidiaries and works with foreign representatives across key international markets, supported by shared production facilities and in-house logistics resources.

Planteneers’ latest product concepts underscored how ingredient suppliers are responding to converging trends in protein fortification, plant-based formulation, and convenience nutrition. By developing modular systems that can be adapted across multiple product lines, the company has sought to offer manufacturers flexibility while addressing consumer demand for higher protein intake across both functional and indulgent categories.