Wide Open Agriculture gains approval to export high-protein lupin Isolate to China

Wide Open Agriculture (WOA) has received approval from China's General Administration of Customs to export its high-protein lupin isolate to the Chinese market. This development enables WOA to tap into China's expanding plant-based protein sector, which is projected to reach US$12 billion by 2030, growing at a compound annual rate of 12.4% from 2023.

The company's lupin protein isolate is versatile, finding applications in products such as protein powders, plant-based milks, yogurts, and ice creams. WOA sources its non-genetically modified lupins primarily from Western Australia and employs a patented, non-chemical process to produce the protein, ensuring it contains all essential amino acids necessary for human health.

WOA's Chairperson, Yaxi Zhan, emphasized the significance of this approval, stating that it reflects the quality and safety of their ingredients and marks a crucial step in entering China's growing plant-protein market. The company is currently in discussions with a local distributor to introduce its products into the Chinese market, focusing on protein powders, plant-based dairy alternatives, and a lupin-based tofu alternative.

This move aligns with China's 'Healthy China 2030' initiative, which aims to promote healthier dietary habits among its population. With a significant portion of the global soybean supply being genetically modified, there's a rising demand in China for alternative, non-GMO, and sustainable protein sources. WOA's lupin protein isolate is poised to meet this demand, offering a nutritious and environmentally friendly option.

In addition to its expansion into China, WOA has been actively pursuing international growth. In January, the company entered into a collaboration with Japanese trading house Nissei Kyoeki to develop a market for lupin-based proteins in Japan. This partnership involved supplying Buntine Protein samples from WOA's facility in Western Australia for evaluation by potential customers.

WOA has also secured exclusive sales partnerships in major markets, including the USA, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands. These strategic alliances position the company to capitalize on the increasing global demand for plant-based proteins, especially as consumers seek non-GMO and sustainable alternatives to traditional soy and pea proteins.