In this month's edition of 'Start-up spotlight,' which champions smaller and earlier-stage businesses innovating in the plant-based space, we speak to Better Pulse. The company is supporting the market with its high-protein, black-eyed pea-based functional ingredients, suitable for use in diverse applications. The company's CEO and co-founder, Alon Karpol, tells us more.

What led to Better Pulse's establishment and what is the company's long-term mission?

Better Pulse was founded to address the growing demand for sustainable and nutritious plant-based protein sources. The company's long-term mission is to revolutionise the alternative protein market by offering high-quality, functional and environmentally friendly ingredients derived from black-eyed peas.

Why did you choose to focus on black-eyed peas in particular?

Black-eyed peas were chosen for several reasons. Firstly, their unique functional properties. Black-eyed pea protein offers high solubility, excellent foaming capacity and thermal stability, enabling the creation of innovative products with desirable textures and functionalities. This allows Better Pulse to provide a unique value proposition to its customers, allowing them to develop new and improved plant-based products with superior quality.

From a sustainability perspective, they require minimal water and fertiliser, have high heat tolerance and can be used in crop rotation to improve soil health.

Nutritionally, they are a complete protein source, containing all nine essential amino acids, along with fibre, iron and other micronutrients. They are naturally non-GMO and free of common allergens, making them suitable for a wide range of consumers.

Finally, their neutral flavour and colour allows for versatile applications in various food and beverage products.

What are the environmental and health benefits of Better Pulse's approach?

Compared to traditional protein sources like dairy and soy, black-eyed peas require less water, land and energy to produce, resulting in a lower carbon footprint that could enable up to 90% less carbon emissions.

Their nitrogen-fixing properties enhance soil fertility, reducing the need for synthetic fertilisers.  

Black-eyed pea protein is also a good source of essential nutrients and is free of cholesterol and saturated fat, contributing to a healthier diet.  

What kinds of solutions are you producing, and for what kinds of food and beverage applications?

Better Pulse currently produces two main products: Protein Base, a ready-to-drink beverage with 3.5% protein, ideal for health-conscious consumers, and Protein Concentrate, a 72% protein powder with excellent solubility and emulsification properties. The concentrate is suitable for various applications such as dairy alternatives (like milk, yogurt and cheese), plant-based meat analogues, protein bars and snacks, baked goods and powdered beverages.

Could you tell us about the technology you use and how it works?

Better Pulse utilises a proprietary dry-milling process that involves minimal processing and no chemical additives. This ensures the preservation of the natural nutritional and functional properties of the black-eyed peas. The process generates a protein-rich fraction from the fibre and starch components.

How does Better Pulse differentiate itself within the alternative protein market?

Black-eyed peas offer a sustainable and nutritious alternative to commonly used protein sources like soy, pea, and rice.

The protein concentrate’s impressive 72% protein content is higher than many other plant-based protein sources. Additionally, the neutral flavour and colour allows for greater versatility in product development and minimal impact on the sensory characteristics of the final product.

As the products are naturally non-GMO and free of chemical additives, they can appeal to health-conscious consumers.

Have there been any key challenges on your journey so far?

One of the key challenges Better Pulse faces is consumer acceptance of black-eyed peas as a novel source of plant-based protein. Many consumers are unfamiliar with black-eyed peas and their nutritional benefits, requiring education and marketing efforts to build awareness and familiarity. This includes addressing potential preconceived notions about taste, texture and culinary applications.

What has been the company's biggest achievement to date?

The company's biggest achievement to date is the successful development and commercialisation of its black-eyed pea protein concentrate, which has garnered interest from various food and beverage manufacturers.

What's next? Any exciting plans on the horizon?

Better Pulse is actively seeking funding to expand its production capacity and further develop its product portfolio. The company plans to introduce new and innovative applications for its black-eyed pea protein, such as functional beverages.

Additionally, Better Pulse is committed to research and development, exploring the use of CRISPR technology to further enhance the nutritional and functional properties of black-eyed peas.