Planted, the Swiss FoodTech pioneer known for its plant-based meat made from clean, natural ingredients, is taking significant steps to expand its production capabilities and meet the rising demand for sustainable food options. In a groundbreaking move, Planted has announced the development of a new production facility in Memmingen, southern Germany, set to be one of the most modern and sustainable production sites for plant-based meat in Europe. In addition, Planted’s flagship product, the planted.steak, is now available at REWE supermarkets across Germany, making plant-based alternatives even more accessible to European consumers.
The global demand for plant-based meat alternatives has surged in recent years, driven by concerns about the environmental impact of traditional meat production and the desire for healthier food options. In response to this, Planted has been ramping up its production capacity. Their newest product, *planted.steak*, launched in 2024, has quickly gained popularity across Europe, particularly in Germany, Switzerland, and Austria. The steak is part of Planted’s innovative “Whole Muscle” platform, which uses fermentation technology to mimic the texture and taste of high-quality meat cuts.
Strategic Expansion: A New Facility in Memmingen
Planted's new production site in Memmingen, Bavaria, represents a major investment in the company's future growth. Built on the site of a revitalized brewery, the facility will become operational in early 2025 and aims to produce over 20 tons of plant-based meat per day in its final phase. This facility will also create more than 50 technical and operational jobs, further supporting the local economy.
Sustainability plays a central role in the facility’s design. In partnership with the Alois Müller Group, the Memmingen plant will operate with nearly zero CO2 emissions. The site will be powered entirely by renewable energy sources, utilizing technologies such as photovoltaic systems, district heating from wood burning, and a well-cooling system.
REWE Partnership: Bringing Planted to German Supermarkets
Planted’s expansion into Germany is further solidified by its partnership with REWE, one of the largest supermarket chains in the country. As of 2024, Planted’s planted.steak is available at REWE stores nationwide, allowing consumers to purchase high-quality, sustainable plant-based meat alternatives more easily than ever. This collaboration is a key component of Planted's strategy to bring its products closer to consumers while expanding its footprint in the European market.
The product has been well received not only in supermarkets but also in restaurants across Germany and Switzerland. Its unique fermentation-based production process creates cuts that are juicy, tender, and full of flavor, rivaling traditional beef steaks. Importantly, the planted.steak produces 97% less CO2 emissions and uses 81% less water compared to conventional beef.
Fermentation Technology: The Future of Plant-Based Proteins
At the heart of Planted's innovative approach is its fermentation technology, which allows the company to create products that closely resemble the texture and taste of meat. The planted.steak is the first product to emerge from Planted’s “Whole Muscle” platform, an innovation that enables the production of premium cuts of plant-based meat. This technology not only enhances the flavor and quality of the products but also ensures that they are produced sustainably, with minimal environmental impact.
Planted is convinced that biostructured proteins created through fermentation will eventually surpass animal meat in flavor, sustainability, health, and cost-effectiveness. The company's expansion into Germany, and the continued development of its fermentation technology, are key steps toward achieving this vision.
Leading the Way in Sustainable Food Production
Planted is not just innovating in food technology; it is setting new standards for sustainable food production. The Memmingen plant will operate almost completely CO2-neutral, making it a model for how future food production facilities can minimize their environmental impact. Planted’s commitment to sustainability extends across its entire value chain, from research and development to large-scale industrial production.
By integrating green technologies into its production processes, Planted demonstrates how the food industry can contribute to the energy transition. The company’s decision to use renewable energy sources and reduce water consumption underscores its role as a pioneer in the sustainable production of plant-based meat.
With the opening of its new production facility in Memmingen and the expansion of its partnership with REWE, Planted is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for sustainable, plant-based meat across Europe. The company’s innovative use of fermentation technology, combined with its commitment to green energy, highlights the potential for plant-based proteins to not only replace but surpass traditional meat in terms of sustainability, health benefits, and flavor. As Planted continues to expand, it is leading the way toward a more sustainable future for food production.
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