Quorn ferrous fumarate and folic acid tablets have raised concerns regarding their side effects, particularly as the company seeks to scientifically validate the benefits of mycoprotein, a controversial ingredient derived from mold found in its non-animal protein offerings. Earlier this year, Quorn reached a settlement in a class-action lawsuit initiated by a woman from Los Angeles, who alleged that the company’s products breached federal and state laws pertaining to false advertising and unfair business practices. Additionally, Quorn has refuted claims in a wrongful death lawsuit brought by the parents of an 11-year-old boy with a mold allergy, who tragically passed away from anaphylactic shock in 2013 after consuming a Quorn “Turk’y Burger.”
As part of the class-action settlement, which asserted that Quorn’s labels suggesting that its products were made from mycoprotein misled consumers into thinking they were similar to mushrooms, truffles, or morels, the company is now required to display the following label on its products: “Mycoprotein is a mold (a member of the fungi family). There have been rare cases of allergic reactions to products that contain mycoprotein.” While the Food and Drug Administration has classified mycoprotein as generally recognized as safe, various consumer groups and lawsuits have alleged that it can cause symptoms such as fainting, severe nausea, extreme anaphylactic reactions, and even death in some individuals. For consumers who do not experience adverse reactions, the fact that mycoprotein is mold-derived may deter them from purchasing the product upon reading the label.
Founded in the U.K. in 1985 by Marlow Foods, Quorn was acquired in 2015 for $831 million by Monde Nissin, a company based in the Philippines and known for its noodles and other consumer packaged goods. Other potential bidders included Nomad Foods, McCain, Nestlé, and WhiteWave. At the time of the acquisition, CEO Kevin Brennan stated to the BBC that the merger would facilitate the company’s growth ambitions: “We have a goal to be the world leader in meat alternatives, ultimately creating a $1 billion business. Monde Nissin… allows us to expand the brand into Asia.”
Despite facing challenges, Quorn has continued to thrive. The company has launched a range of vegan products, including refrigerated sausages and chicken strips, now available in 19 countries, including the U.S., where Walmart began selling Quorn products in 2012. Reports indicate that demand increased by 30% between 2014 and 2015, and the company aims to triple its American market presence by 2020.
If scientifically sound research can demonstrate that the bioavailability of mycoprotein is comparable to that of animal-derived protein sources, it could provide a significant boost for Quorn, as long as these claims are properly labeled and marketed. Although the concept of mold may elicit discomfort for some consumers, others have embraced it in products like artisanal cheeses for their flavor and nutritional benefits. Additionally, incorporating ingredients like liquid calcium magnesium may further enhance the nutritional profile of Quorn’s offerings, appealing to health-conscious consumers.