Cosucra to build new units at Warcoing pea protein facility in Belgium

Cosucra, a Belgian group specialising in nutritional ingredients, is set to invest €30m for the construction of new units at its pea protein manufacturing facility in Warcoing, Belgium.

The expansion project is part of the company’s efforts to strengthen its presence in the pea protein market.

It involves installation of a second pea protein refining line, a second drying tower as well as an additional packaging line at the plant.

Work on the project, which is already approved by the company’s board of directors, is expected to start in October, while the production site will go onstream at the beginning of 2015.

Once complete, the upgraded facility will increase the company’s capacity to produce its Pisane pea protein isolate, which is recognised as a high-quality plant protein that can be used in a wide range of products.

Pisane offers high levels of nutrition and functionality for protein dietetic foods and beverages and improves the nutritional profile of products, such as beverages, bars, biscuits, soups and ready-meals designed for weight management, performance improvement, allergenicity concerns and medical purposes.

Cosucra stated that demand for pea protein is rapidly increasing, especially in the North American and European markets where soy protein dominates the segment.

The company noted that it is realising a year-on-year growth of 20% from sales of its Pisane product in sport, medical nutrition, seniors, vegetarians and diet nutrition markets.

Cosucra commercial director Michel Dewael said, "The growing interest in this type of protein is related to an increased awareness among consumers about healthier food prepared with ingredients that come from local and sustainable farming."

Headquartered in Warcoing, Belgium, Cosucra develops and produces natural food ingredients from chicory and peas including Fibruline, Pisane and Swelite, which are used by more than 400 manufacturers and are included in over 1,500 food products worldwide.

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Image: The upgraded facility will increase Cosucra’s production of Pisane pea protein isolate. Photo courtesty of Esther Groen.