Franklin Farms announces tuna analog; NewFish to develop algae protein

SeafoodSource is closely following the plant-based and cell-based seafood alternatives market by compiling a regular round-up of updates from the sector.

-Franklin Farms, based in Franklin, Connecticut, U.S.A., has announced the expansion of its plant-based product line with a new tuna analog. The Franklin Farms Plant-Based Tuna will be available in both original and jalapeño flavors by the end of May 2023, the company said in a press release.

“Our plant-based tuna mimics the same bite, texture, and flavor as traditional tuna and is unlike any other plant-based offering available in the market today,” Franklin Farms Vice President of Sales Cindy Wong said. “It is a one-to-one ratio replacement for regular canned tuna but is 100 percent fish-free and perfect to use for tuna salad, tuna sandwiches, tuna casseroles, and more. Flexitarians, vegetarians, and shoppers looking to try more plant-based products will all love the delicious savory taste of our new Franklin Farms Plant-Based Tuna.”

- NewFish, a biotechnology research company headquartered in Auckland, New Zealand, has partnered with Socuis Ingredients to develop algae-based proteins for the U.S. sports and active nutrition products market. Evanston, Illinois, U.S.A.-based Socuis Ingredients offers a range of advanced protein, hydrocolloid, and color technologies to food-makers.

“Global dairy demand is expected to outstrip supply 2030 and there are new opportunities for crave-able nutrition with a low emissions footprint that don’t cost our oceans and lands,” NewFish CEO Toby Lane said in a release. “Our microalgae technology can complement existing portfolios and allow nutrition companies to meet their expected supply deficit. Socius Ingredients is an excellent partner for us as they are experts in their field of developing protein-based solutions for some of the largest customers across the U.S.A. and internationally.”

- Seoul, South Korea-based startup CellMeat announced it has developed its prototype for cell-cultured caviar, according to Greenqueen. Last spring, the startup received more than USD 8.1 million (EUR 7.4 million) in its initial funding round. The finished prototype provides a “less fishy” tasting product, with a variety of shapes and sizes.  

- Reykjavik, Iceland-based Loki Foods opened its new plant-based meats and seafood facility in Kopavogur, Iceland in March 2023, earlier than anticipated. The plant-based food company’s new facility gives it the capacity for enhanced product delivery domestically and internationally, it said in a 17 April release.

Photo courtesy of NewFish