An untapped opportunity

The market opportunity for plant-based fish is clear. Consumers have already embraced plant-based meat and the prevalence of Marine Stewardship Council or ‘responsibly sourced’ statements on launches show that sustainability, the environment particularly, are the major concerns for consumers when shopping fish and shellfish foods. The only question has been whether brands can replicate the texture, taste, colour and aroma of fish.

RISING TO THE CHALLENGE

Solina has conclusively answered the question about the sensory properties of plant-based fish with our vegan tuna concept. The concept posed new challenges to NEXTERA®, an organisation with extensive experience of developing plant-based meats. With its flaky, soft bite and light, delicate colour and aroma, fish differs significantly from meat and the vegan tuna concept required a new approach.

NEXTERA® achieved the optimal flaky, soft fish-bite by applying wet extrusion to a selection of vegetable proteins. Through meticulous fine tuning, the team matched the texture to the fish gold standard and countered potential plant-based protein off-flavours to convincingly copy the taste and aroma. At the same time, the team watched closely to exclude and mitigate any unwanted interaction effects on texture or aroma that might arise during post-processing or heat treatment in the can.

SOLINA IFFA 2022

60%

the proportion of German meat substitute users who are interested in plant-based fish products

Fish substitute brands can turn interest into repeat sales by innovating around improved taste, texture and nutritional qualities.

Source: Mintel

bEING FLEXIBLE

The vegan tuna concept gives Solina a jumping off point for products tailored to the specific needs of each client. For example, Solina provides the option to go 100% allergen free, thereby enabling clients to deliver a plant-based tuna that meets the unique dietary requirements of their targeted consumers.

Solving your challenges

Have a challenge? Let’s work together to find a solution.

Discover other inspirational concepts

Solina has showcased the power of our capabilities with advanced concepts that address the biggest trends in savoury foods.

Making consumer craved crisps healthier?

See inspirational concept

Challenging the all-time concept of a hot dog?

See inspirational concept

A ham with optimised Nutri-Score and clear ingredients label?

See inspirational concept

Is a no-compromise, nitrite-free ham possible?

See inspirational concept

Bringing the taste of Thailand to Europe?

See inspirational concept

Perfecting a plant-based nugget?

See inspirational concept

Perfecting a chicken-like burger?

See inspirational concept

How to put the crunch into chicken wings?

See inspirational concept

Giving plant-based goujons a chicken-like bite?

See inspirational concept

Is vegan tuna the next plant-based success?

See inspirational concept

DISCOVER MORE

Integrated Solutions

Learn More >

New Protein Food

Learn More >