Bunge opens first new US soy protein facility in 40 years
Morristown, Indiana plant is largest soy protein concentrate site in US
Bunge has opened a new soy protein concentrate facility in Morristown, Indiana — the first such facility built in the US in more than 40 years and the largest in the country, according to a company-issued press release.
The facility is dedicated exclusively to food production and represents what Bunge describes as a long-term investment in its customers, farmer partners, and local communities. State and community leaders joined the Bunge team for the opening.
Food manufacturers had told Bunge that their biggest challenges with plant protein ingredients were earthy or beany flavours, dull colour, and inconsistent service. Using advanced processing technology, the Morristown facility produces clean-tasting, light-coloured soy protein concentrates designed to deliver functionality without compromising flavour or appearance. Products are suited to a wide range of applications including meat and plant-based meat, cereals, premixes, bakery products, and snacks.
"At the heart of Morristown, one thing remains constant: our customers," said Brian Douville, vice-president, emulsifiers and proteins. "This facility exists because we listened to what customers told us they needed and built something different to serve them better."
The facility also creates new value-added markets for Indiana-grown soybeans and is built to serve customers ranging from emerging brands to global food companies.
Bunge said the facility's integrated supply chain will allow it to work directly with farmers to support regenerative agriculture practices, with the goal of improving soil health and reducing the carbon footprint of its soy ingredients.
"Morristown is a promise to our customers, our farmer partners, and our communities to deliver great-tasting and great-looking foods, real value, and truly exceptional service," Douville said.