NETHERLANDS – FrieslandCampina Ingredients, a leading dairy company focusing on nutrition solutions, has announced the expansion of its production capacity for whey protein isolate and milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) at its Borculo plant in the Netherlands.
This expanded production set to commence in early 2026, is in response to the growing demand for specialized ingredients driven by increasing consumer interest in health and well-being.
The company believes that the future of whey protein lies in higher performance and specialized ingredients that maximize the nutritional profile of dairy.
Herman Ermens, President of FrieslandCampina, highlighted the fact that consumers of all ages are becoming more health-conscious and are actively seeking specialized ingredients that offer the benefits they value.
“Whey protein, in particular, is in high demand as consumers turn to this macronutrient to support their overall well-being, whether it’s managing hunger levels or supporting their exercise routines,” he said.
Ermens pointed out that consumer interest in whey protein is growing rapidly, with a significant percentage of consumers wanting to increase their protein intake and believing that it will help them achieve their health and wellness goals.
He noted that this has led to a thriving market for whey protein, expected to reach US$40.3 billion by 2033.
In addition, he emphasized that the convenience of nutrition is a key factor in the growing demand for specialized ingredients, with consumers increasingly choosing protein solutions like shots, waters, and bars for on-the-go nutrition.
“Whey protein isolate is particularly popular in the performance nutrition market due to its amino acid composition and versatility in various applications.”
“MFGM, traditionally associated with early-life nutrition, is gaining traction in the adult nutrition market due to its suggested cognitive and gut health benefits. The premiumization trend in infant nutrition has also contributed to the increased demand for MFGM,” he added.
Meanwhile, FrieslandCampina is actively committed to reducing CO2 emissions at the Borculo plant in alignment with its 2050 climate plan ambitions.
The company aims to achieve fully climate-neutral and circular factories by 2050, with targets to reduce carbon emissions to zero, decrease water usage by 50%, and use 100% renewable electricity.
As part of its sustainability efforts, the company is using innovative technology, such as fueling delivery trucks with pyrolysis oil made from wood chips, leading to significant natural gas and carbon savings.
They are also using biogas to power operations, further reducing carbon emissions. The company’s commitment to circularity includes reusing water in processes to minimize the use of clean water and turning residual substances into alginate for reuse.