July 27th 2026
German ingredient specialist Crespel & Deiters is expanding its plant protein capabilities through a new partnership with Finnish food-tech company Happy Plant Protein, bringing a novel dry extrusion process into industrial production for the first time.
Operating from its extrusion facility in Helmond, the Netherlands, the company is now producing textured vegetable proteins from European-grown legumes, such as peas and fava beans, using a patented one-step process designed to improve efficiency while preserving ingredient functionality.
Happy Plant Protein’s patented dry extrusion technology offers an alternative to conventional air classification by separating flour into protein and starch fractions in a single processing step, while giving the protein the functional properties needed for food applications.
The process eliminates the need for protein isolates, chemicals, and water-intensive processing.
The partnership forms part of Crespel & Deiters’ broader strategy to diversify beyond its traditional wheat expertise and strengthen its portfolio of functional plant-based ingredients.
By combining its long-standing extrusion know-how with Happy Plant Protein’s technology, the company aims to provide food manufacturers with neutral-tasting, regionally sourced protein ingredients tailored for applications ranging from meat alternatives and hybrid products to ready meals and snacks.
As demand grows for clean label, locally sourced plant proteins, ingredient manufacturers are increasingly looking for technologies that can improve sustainability while delivering the performance food producers expect.
Source: https://www.foodingredientsfirst.com/news/crespell-deiters-dry-extrusion-plant-protein.html