Albert Heijn, the largest grocery retailer in the Netherlands, is set to introduce a groundbreaking line of “hybrid” milks that merge dairy with plant-based components. This innovative launch aligns with current food and beverage industry trends that emphasize sustainability and plant integration.
The retailer, which is part of the Ahold Delhaize group, has collaborated with Denmark’s PlanetDairy and Farm Dairy Netherlands to bring this product to market. PlanetDairy employs a precision fermentation process that blends traditional dairy ingredients with plants. The new milks will be available under Albert Heijn’s private label and produced at Farm Dairy Netherlands in Lelystad.
Jan de Graaf, head of the dairy category at Albert Heijn, stated, “At Albert Heijn, we pride ourselves on being pathbreakers in Dutch retail.” This partnership with Farm Dairy and PlanetDairy positions Albert Heijn as a pioneer in launching dairy and plant milk blends in the Netherlands.
Founded by a trio of dairy industry experts in 2022, PlanetDairy has already made strides in developing plant-based alternatives. Their Audu brand features hybrid versions of mozzarella and cheddar in various forms, showcasing the versatility and adaptability necessary for a successful food and drink business.
Earlier this year, PlanetDairy’s CEO, Jakob Skovgaard, expressed enthusiasm about expanding their product range. “We first met Albert Heijn in the spring of 2024,” remarked Dr. Paul Cornillon, CTO of PlanetDairy. “We shared the success of our cheese launch in the Nordic markets and approached them with ideas on cheese, milk, and yogurt.”
This initiative is described by PlanetDairy as a “major first for the European retail sector.” Skovgaard highlighted, “Typically, such a move is led by brands: Arla Milk & Oats, Paquette, Smug Dairy, etc. What makes it pathbreaking is it’s priced at par with the animal equivalent. Usually, plant alternatives are priced at a premium which is a major barrier for shoppers.”
The newly formulated milks retail nationwide in the Netherlands for €1.39 ($1.61). Arend Bouwer, Managing Director of Farm Dairy Netherlands, noted that they are already working on additional projects with PlanetDairy, including yogurt blends, to further adapt to evolving food and drink consumer trends.
