In recent years, the plant-based milk category has seen tremendous growth. Now that the market has reached a certain level of maturity, many consumers show little interest in returning to traditional dairy. The global plant-based milk market is projected to grow from $20.1 billion this year to $47.9 billion by 2034.
At the same time, there’s a growing demand for higher protein intake among consumers — a need rarely met by current plant-based milk options.
“While many consumers enjoy the taste and texture of plant-based milks like oat, almond, or rice, they are often dissatisfied with the low protein content,” says Alon Karpol, CEO of Israeli startup Better Pulse. In response, the company has developed a unique product based on an unexpected ingredient: the black-eyed pea. “It contains three times more protein than regular oat milk, without compromising the creamy texture and pleasant taste people love,” Karpol adds.
Are Black-Eyed Peas Beneficial for People and the Planet?
Also known as goat peas, black-eyed peas are a subspecies of the cowpea. Easily recognized by their pale cream color and distinct black spot, they’re a traditional staple in the Southern U.S. and are cultivated around the world.
Nutritionally, black-eyed peas are rich in protein — over 30% — and offer a good source of fiber. They’re also packed with essential micronutrients such as calcium, iron, magnesium, and vitamin A.
From a sustainability standpoint, black-eyed peas have the ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers. They also perform well in hot climates and require relatively little water. “It’s the ideal crop to address food security challenges driven by climate change,” says Karpol.
At Better Pulse, black-eyed peas are seen as a win-win-win solution in the alt-dairy space: when used as a base for plant-based milk, they deliver a deliciously creamy texture, exceptional sustainability, and a significant 8 grams of protein per serving — at least three times more than most oat milk alternatives.
“We’re harnessing the protein power of black-eyed peas to elevate the plant-based milk category — with a revolutionary product that’s not only healthy and innovative, but remarkably sustainable,” says Karpol.
Taste and Functionality of Black-Eyed Pea-Based Dairy
To create its products, Better Pulse uses a process similar to that of other plant-based milk alternatives, with some key modifications. According to the CEO, intellectual property protection for this process is currently underway.
Meanwhile, the protein concentrate and isolate are produced using a proprietary extraction method developed in-house by the company.
Reference:
https://www.foodnavigator.com/Article/2024/06/10/black-eyed-pea-milk-the-new-alternative-dairy/
