Better Pulse has unveiled its innovative protein derived from gene-edited Black-eyed peas plants. This development is not just another entry into the burgeoning plant-based protein market; it's a transformative solution designed to address the challenges posed by global warming on food security and nutrition.
The Innovation: Beyond GMOs
Better Pulse's Black-eyed peas protein is derived from plants that have been gene-edited to enable mechanized harvesting. Importantly, these genetic traits do not fall under the category of GMOs. The protein offers a high-quality and dependable alternative to both animal-derived and traditional plant-based protein sources. It is versatile enough to be used in a wide array of food products, including dairy replacements like milk and yogurt.
The Urgency: Climate Change and Food Security
Currently, over 51% of our caloric intake comes from just four staple crops—rice, soy, wheat, and corn. These crops are increasingly vulnerable to extreme weather conditions exacerbated by climate change, such as heatwaves and droughts. This vulnerability poses a significant threat to global food security and could lead to nutritional deficiencies on a large scale.
Why Black-Eyed Peas?
The Black-eyed peas plant is one of the oldest cultivated crops and is rich in protein. It has several advantages over other legumes like soybeans. It requires minimal water and fertilizer and is robustly heat-tolerant, making it a climate-resilient option. Predictions indicate a 20% decline in soybean yields within the next decade due to climate change. In contrast, Black-eyed peas offer a sustainable and resilient alternative, filling the void that diminishing soybean production is expected to leave.
Unique Features and Market Potential
Better Pulse's Black-eyed pea protein stands out for its white color and subtle aftertaste, making it ideal for dairy alternative products. The company has successfully concluded a Proof-of-Concept phase, achieving over 70% Protein Concentrate-grade protein and initiating patent applications. They have also secured exclusive rights to Black-eyed peas genetics that are ready for mechanized harvesting, making cultivation cost-effective and profitable beyond Africa, where the crop is primarily grown.
A Holistic Approach to Tackling Climate Crisis
Ido Margalit, CEO and co-founder of BetterSeeds, sums it up best: "Better Pulse marks an important development in the industry by adopting the vertical integration model, which combines ag-tech with food-tech. These two fields must become intertwined to deal with the climate crisis and its negative impact on the food supply chain."
In a world grappling with the effects of climate change, Better Pulse's Black-eyed peas protein offers a glimmer of hope. It's not just a new product; it's a new way of thinking about food security, nutrition, and sustainability.