Tetra Pak introduces sunflower protein to support plant-based and functional product development

Tetra Pak has introduced a new sunflower protein ingredient designed to help food and beverage producers respond to rising consumer demand for plant-based and functional products. Announced in Lausanne on 19 November 2025, the launch expanded the company’s portfolio of ingredients aimed at supporting manufacturers as they broaden their product ranges without major changes to existing production lines.

The sunflower protein ingredient was presented as a flexible option for use in a wide range of applications, including iced coffees, yogurts, ready-to-drink protein beverages, meal replacements, and fortified foods. With a neutral, slightly nutty flavor, smooth texture, and off-white color, the ingredient was described as easy to incorporate into diverse formulations. Its dosing range of 2% to 7% allowed producers to adjust recipes to meet specific goals, such as increasing protein content, improving texture, or supporting balanced nutrition.

Tetra Pak linked the introduction to wider growth across the plant-based segment, which was forecast to triple in size to US$35.9 billion by 2033. The company said the ingredient supported its broader efforts within the food supplement and nutrition category. Through its global Product Development Centres, Tetra Pak has worked with producers seeking to accelerate development timelines and refine products in line with shifting consumer expectations for health-focused innovation.

Consumer interest in functional and nutritionally enhanced products played a central role in the company’s framing of the launch. With 74% of consumers actively seeking products that carry health claims, Tetra Pak noted that sunflower protein’s nutritional profile – containing up to 50% protein along with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants – offered opportunities for producers looking to strengthen or expand their functional offerings. The ingredient’s amino acid profile was also positioned as well suited to plant-based formulations.

The market context underscored the appeal of new protein ingredients. Forecasts indicated that the global protein sector was expected to surpass US$27.48 billion, while Europe’s meal replacement category was projected to grow from US$2.04 billion in 2024 to US$3.91 billion by 2033, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 7.53%.

For manufacturers looking to optimize existing lines while expanding into new categories, Tetra Pak emphasized that the ingredient could be integrated with minimal operational adjustments. By offering a plant-based protein that fits into current processes, the company said producers could explore new product concepts without significant capital investment.

Sasha Ilyukhin, Senior Vice President of Global Processing Services & Services Solutions at Tetra Pak, said the ingredient offered a practical way to broaden portfolios. “Sunflower protein is a renewable and flexible ingredient that opens the door to new product opportunities without requiring major changes to existing lines and product formulations. With its adaptable flavor and nutritional benefits, it’s a great way for producers to expand product portfolios using current infrastructure, attract health-conscious consumers, and stay ahead of market trends,” he said.

By adding sunflower protein to its ingredient offering, Tetra Pak has continued its strategy of supporting producers responding to growing interest in plant-based and functional nutrition, while allowing them to make efficient use of their existing assets.