Burcon NutraScience Corporation, a global technology leader in the development of plant-based proteins for foods and beverages, is pleased to announce the launch of its Puratein® canola protein into the rapidly growing, multi-billion-dollar egg replacement market. Burcon’s canola protein is well-suited for use in baked goods, offering food manufacturers a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to eggs.
Egg prices have surged due to supply challenges, with demand outpacing production in the U.S. Over the past two years, avian influenza outbreaks have significantly disrupted egg supplies. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and USDA data, the price of eggs in August 2024 increased by 57% year-over-year, while powdered whole egg prices rose by 15%. As a result, food manufacturers are actively seeking egg substitutes to mitigate supply shortages and price volatility.
Burcon’s canola protein isolate, with over 90% protein purity and exceptional functionality, is a suitable egg replacement in bakery applications. In a side-by-side study, Burcon’s canola protein has demonstrated the ability to replace up to 100% of powdered and shelled eggs, delivering cost-in-use savings of 20 – 30%. This great-tasting canola protein not only provides superior functionality and price stability but also offers a vegan-friendly option for consumers.
“We’re thrilled to receive such positive customer feedback on the use of our canola protein as an egg protein replacer,” said Kip Underwood, Burcon’s chief executive officer. “The food industry has long sought a plant-based alternative to egg protein. Our canola protein not only serves as a replacement in traditional food applications but also enables the creation of superior, more sustainable plant-based alternatives, expanding new application possibilities.”
