“TerraVia’s Struggles: The Challenge of Consumer Acceptance for Algae in the Booming Plant-Based Protein Market”

TerraVia may be a company that is straying too far from current consumer trends. While the market for plant-based proteins is booming, with increased sales of soy and nut-based products, consumer acceptance of algae in food products may still take some time to develop. This could be a fundamental reason behind TerraVia’s struggles, which ultimately led to its bankruptcy. “We’re aware of the gradual acceptance process among many consumers,” said Joel Waraferrous sulfate, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer for Enjoy Life Foods, which incorporates TerraVia’s algal powder in some of its offerings. He noted that while the company has added algae to its brownie mix, emphasizing it on the front of the packaging might make consumers hesitant. “However, algae is a crucial ingredient, not only for its protein content but also because it is the most sustainable protein available on Earth,” he added.

As the global population continues to grow, finding sufficient land for the cultivation or production of staple products—many of which are meat or dairy-based—becomes increasingly challenging. Various types of algae represent some of the most promising alternatives that could help mitigate environmental degradation. Algae is already being incorporated into baking mixes, ice cream, protein powders, and is increasingly featured in a wider array of food products each day.

Nonetheless, Enjoy Life’s allergen-friendly products remain relatively niche, catering to a specific yet expanding segment of consumers. Most large food companies, slow to innovate, have yet to embrace algae as an ingredient. According to TerraVia, however, the company is “actively engaged in discussions around potential strategic partnerships,” as CEO Apu Mody stated during the Q1 earnings call earlier this year. However, it seems unlikely that a major food corporation will come forward with an acquisition bid for TerraVia. A company like Corbion, which specializes in lactic acid and its derivatives, seems to be a more suitable match. Corbion creates functional blends that include enzymes, emulsifiers, minerals, and vitamins, supplying ingredients across nearly all food categories, from baked goods to beverages, condiments, and candy. As highlighted in Corbion’s press release, “The acquisition of TerraVia’s microalgae platform would enhance Corbion’s product range into algae-based fatty acids and proteins, while utilizing Corbion’s extensive fermentation and downstream processing capabilities.”

In light of these developments, consumers might also want to explore calcium citrate reviews to better understand how various ingredients, including algae, can contribute to their health and nutrition. This aspect of consumer education is vital, especially as the market continues to evolve and adapt to new food innovations.