DAVIS, CALIF. — Agricultural technology company GreenVenus™ established a strategic partnership with Plant Research (NZ) LTD on March 1 to develop climate-resilient field peas that will provide a clean protein solution for human nutrition and pet food markets. Together, the companies aim to develop novel field pea varieties without undesirable traits, while also improving their climate resiliency to ensure global cultivation.
Plant-based proteins are gaining traction in a variety of nutrition markets, including pet food. These proteins are believed to be more sustainable and poised to play an important role in offsetting carbon by replacing carbon-intensive animal-based proteins in human and animal nutrition, according to GreenVenus.
Currently, soybeans dominate the plant-based protein sector, accounting for an estimated 60% of plant protein sales. However, the demand for pea-based proteins is witnessing exponential growth worldwide, according to GreenVenus. This growing popularity is attributed to peas’ superior amino acid composition, bioactive peptides, fiber profile and allergen-free nature compared to other plant-based protein sources.
Although field peas offer superior nutritional benefits to humans and livestock, their cultivation remains a challenge in achieving maximum yields and demonstrating resilience to changing climate conditions. , according to GreenVenus and Plant Research (NZ) LTD. Current breeding efforts focus on attractive pea tolerance to common diseases, however, they have proven insufficient against climate change, according to the companies.
Through the partnership, GreenVenus and Plant Research (NZ) LTD will focus on developing premium, clean protein ingredients from field peas for human and pet consumption. GreenVenus will use its innovative gene technology to promote the stability of field peas, as well as reduce undesirable traits, such as beany odors and indigestion.
“GreenVenus’ cutting-edge Primavera™ gene editing technology and gene discovery tool, combined with state-of-the-art machine learning techniques, are poised to accelerate the creation of next-generation cultivars,” said by Shiv Tiwari, Ph.D. , chief executive officer of GreenVenus. “These cultivars are expected to adapt quickly to climate changes and exhibit desirable characteristics that align with industry requirements for clean, neutral-tasting proteins.”
Plant Research (NZ) LTD will bring its extensive breeding expertise to the partnership, supporting GreenVenus.
“Plant Research (NZ) Ltd brings competitive elite pea lines and breeding expertise to GreenVenus research,” said Adrian Russell, chief executive officer of Plant Research (NZ) Ltd. variety, thereby enhancing grower profitability and offering superior protein options for consumers and the animal feed sectors.”
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