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Roquette opens world’s largest pea protein plant in Manitoba

On Nov. 17, Roquette opened the world’s largest pea protein plant to meet surging global demand for alternative proteins. The new “Plant for the Future” gives Roquette the largest pea protein supply in the world alongside some of the world’s best experts in developing new plant-based foods.

“Diets have changed considerably in recent years, and the desire for alternative proteins continues to grow,” said Pierre Courduroux, CEO of Roquette, in a press release. “Our company is proud to bring this amazing new facility online to serve demand in North America and around the world.”

Demand for pea protein has been booming, with multiple industry estimates expecting an annual global growth rate between 15 and 24 per cent over the next decade. With the new plant, Roquette has responded to that demand and is the only company with major pea protein facilities on both sides of the Atlantic.

The new plant is situated just outside Winnipeg in Portage la Prairie, Man. The region produces more peas than any other in the world, all within a day’s drive of the plant. With easy access to the United States and international markets by road, rail and air, the new plant is the largest player in a region becoming known as the “Silicon Valley of plant-based protein.”

The 200,000-square-foot-plant has the capacity to process 125,000 tons of yellow peas per year. When combined with Roquette’s plant in France, the company’s capacity now rises to 250,000 tons of peas per year.