Cargill’s Saint-Cyr en Val facility, which has been operating for 30 years, is receiving a capital injection of €50m to boost its capacity by 10%. As part of this investment, a protein innovation hub will be established, offering Cargill’s customers the opportunity to develop their own protein products. The hub will include a kitchen for product development, a pilot plant for prototype creation, and a customer experience center for tasting. This comprehensive process allows for the creation of protein-rich products using different protein sources.
According to Karel Zimmermann, Managing Director of Cargill Protein Europe, the pilot line and test kitchen have been designed to provide flexibility and the ability to develop various product types and variations. Products can be developed within 3-4 weeks from kitchen sample approval, making the process efficient and timely.
Furthermore, the investment in the facility not only focuses on the protein hub but also prioritizes sustainability. Energy-saving programs, including a new refrigeration unit, will reduce electricity consumption by 11%. Heat pumps will decrease gas consumption by 5% and water consumption by 20%, resulting in a reduction of the site’s environmental footprint by 220t of CO2 emissions annually.
This Protein Innovation Hub serves as a centralized location for exploring the world of protein, from consumer insights to product concepts. It is Cargill’s first hub of its kind in Europe and demonstrates their commitment to investing in protein as an essential component of the food chain.
Jonathan Laroye, director of Cargill’s Saint-Cyr en Val plant, highlights the facility’s contribution to the local community, having served over 2,000 restaurants across France and 10 European countries. This major investment not only upgrades the facilities with new-generation technology but also boosts the local
Cargill’s €50m investment in the Saint-Cyr en Val facility will enhance its capacity, establish a protein innovation hub, and prioritize sustainability. This strategic move demonstrates Cargill’s commitment to fostering innovation and supporting the growth of the food and beverage industry.
