Japan-based food manufacturer Ajinomoto Group is set to introduce a new brand in collaboration with Solar Foods, renowned for its carbon-neutral protein. This synergy promises to innovate within the food and beverage industry trends by launching Traditional Flowering Mooncakes and Ice Cream Sandwiches under the brand Atlr.72 in Singapore.
The new product line is the outcome of a strategic partnership established last year between Solar Foods and Ajinomoto. This collaboration specifically seeks to pilot Solein-based products within the Singapore market. Solein serves as Solar Foods’ flagship ingredient, described as an “all-purpose protein grown with air.” By employing a bioprocess that ferments a single microbe using air and electricity, Solein emerges as a nutritionally rich ingredient, effectively substituting protein in various food applications. It also acts as a fortifier, enhancing the nutritional profiles of a range of foods thanks to its iron, fiber, and B vitamins content.
In these innovative Atlr.72 Flowering Mooncakes and Ice Cream Sandwiches, Solein will replace traditional dairy ingredients. These exclusive offerings will be available for a limited duration at Ajinomoto’s pop-up stores located in two commercial venues: Takashimaya Singapore starting August 12 and One Holland Village from August 30.
Solar Foods’ CEO and co-founder Pasi Vainikka remarked, “Ajinomoto’s launch marks an important milestone on our journey to renew existing food categories and reduce the environmental impact of food production. It’s a major step for the commercial use of Solein as our new factory is now ramping up its production, paving the way for the introduction of Solein to people’s plates.”
Ajinomoto has positioned its “green food business” as a critical growth area. In April, Solar Foods’ Factory 01 commenced operations to facilitate commercial-scale production of Solein, catering specifically to the food industry, food brands, and foodservice companies.
Vainikka further stated, “With the new brand, Ajinomoto proposes a new food lifestyle that fosters respect for nature in today’s consumers. Solar Foods is proud to be supporting this ambition, and we share the vision for what the future of food will be.” The Japanese conglomerate has plans to expand Atlr.72 into more everyday food categories, with the successful business model developed in Singapore being rolled out to additional countries and regions.
This innovative collaboration represents a significant step towards addressing current food and drink consumer trends by fostering sustainability and nutritional enhancement in the food and drink business. As the food and beverage landscape continues to evolve, such partnerships are essential for driving the industry forward.
