Harvest B enters distribution deal with NZ supplier to manufacture novel plant proteins

Australian plant-based protein manufacturer Harvest B has signed a distribution agreement with fourth-generation family-owned, food distribution business Dunninghams to bring novel plant proteins to New Zealand.

Harvest B’s plant-based protein, developed utilising a proprietary blend of plant proteins and extrusion technology, will now be exported to New Zealand for the first time.

The manufacturer said it has developed a line of goods that have the look and flavour of whole meat chunks without the use of binders, additives, or a cold supply chain.

In particular, Harvest B’s New Zealand product line will include ready-to-eat 1kg packs of chickenless strips, chickenless pieces, chickenless shred, beefless pieces, lambless pieces, and porkless pieces, as well as bulk solutions for restaurateurs and food service organisations.

“Partnering with such a highly respected organisation like Dunninghams to serve New Zealand made absolute sense for Harvest B,” said Kristi Riordan, CEO of Harvest B. 

Riordan added, “Dunninghams brings a deep understanding of the New Zealand market and consumers, and like us they share a commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.”

Dunninghams CEO Scott Reynolds stated that demand in the New Zealand market has been increasing, adding that the company is thrilled to partner with Harvest B to bring their innovative and sustainable products to New Zealand.

“Harvest B’s plant-proteins are ideally suited to this market, where consumers have, until now, had limited choice when seeking healthier and more sustainable food options to reduce their animal protein consumption,” Reynolds noted. 

Meanwhile, the Harvest B CEO revealed the company brings together multiple plant protein types, allowing them to provide better nutrition and a better eating experience. 

“Through a simple on-site brine process, restaurants and food manufacturers can replicate traditional menu items their customers love with our plant proteins,” explained Riordan.

In particular, Harvest B said that its plant proteins are designed to be ambient and do not require a cold supply chain (refrigeration or freezing), making them simple to transport, store, and utilise in a number of applications. 

This has various advantages, including cutting supply chain emissions, reducing waste, increasing shelf life, and improving sustainability, all of which are important in today’s society.

“Over our 100-year history, Dunninghams has always sought to lead the market by offering high-quality, innovative ingredients and food products to New Zealand. We believe that Harvest B’s products will deliver a healthy, affordable and great-tasting meal option to our market, while also providing retailers with a plant-based option that is lean and green,” explained Dunnighams’ Scott Reynolds.

Harvest B’s products will be available from Dunninghams online dunninghams.co.nz or via sales@dunninghams.co.nz.