Arla Foods Ingredients has finalized a significant partnership with Valley Queen as part of its broader strategic initiative to bolster its capacity to meet the growing demand for protein-enriched dairy products in the United States.
The South Dakota dairy processor will produce ingredients from the Nutrilac ProteinBoost product line for Arla Foods Ingredients. This collaboration aims to “significantly increase” production capacity, enhancing Arla’s offerings in the market.
Nutrilac ProteinBoost is a patented microparticulate whey protein concentrate designed to elevate protein content in food and beverage applications while maintaining the desired texture and flavor.
Production of Nutrilac ProteinBoost is slated to commence at Valley Queen’s Milbank, South Dakota facility by the end of this year, following the installation of new specialized equipment.
Based in Denmark, Arla Foods Ingredients operates as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Arla Foods and plays a significant role in the UK dairy market.
In November 2024, Arla Foods Ingredients received approval from the Competition and Markets Authority for its acquisition of Volac Whey Nutrition Holdings and its Wales-based site, following a detailed investigation.
‘Ambitious Plans for Growth in North America’
“Demand for protein-enriched dairy products continues to grow in the US,” stated Luis Cubel, group vice president and managing director of Arla Foods Ingredients.
“To meet this demand and fulfill our ambitious growth plans in North America, increasing our capacity for Nutrilac ProteinBoost was essential. Furthermore, choosing a partner that aligns with our values, heritage, and expertise was critical. We are thrilled to collaborate with Valley Queen, a company renowned for its commitment to producing top-quality dairy and whey products.”
Doug Wilke, CEO of Valley Queen, expressed similar sentiments, highlighting the shared dedication between the two companies to address the needs of US manufacturers and consumers.
“Nutrilac ProteinBoost is a highly innovative ingredient, providing an excellent avenue for crafting appealing dairy products infused with high-quality protein,” remarked Wilke. “We look forward to advancing its production and building a lasting and fruitful partnership with a global leader in the whey nutrition sector.”
