Israeli startup Better Pulse introduces cowpea milk as a sustainable dairy alternative

ISRAEL – Israeli startup Better Pulse is making waves as the first company to use cowpea, or black-eyed pea, as a dairy milk alternative.

According to the company, the cowpea holds cultural significance in various traditions, symbolizing fertility and protection. It is also popular in dishes for the Jewish New Year and American southern New Year celebrations.

However, its importance extends beyond symbolism, as the cowpea is an exceptionally resilient crop with impressive nutritional benefits.

Native to Africa’s Sahel region, cowpea requires minimal water and fertilizers, has high heat tolerance, and is ideal for crop rotation.

Better Pulse CEO Alon Karpol highlighted its non-GMO status and its near-complete essential amino acid profile, making it a promising alternative to traditional dairy milk.

A University of Oxford study found that dairy milk production generates nearly three times the greenhouse gas emissions of plant-based milks, driving the demand for more sustainable options.

With the global dairy alternatives market valued at US$29.18 billion in 2023 and growing annually by 12.6%, the timing for a new alternative is perfect.

Unlike other plant-based milk sources, cowpea milk is praised for its ability to emulsify and foam like dairy milk, while lacking the bean or grassy aftertaste common in other milk alternatives.

The idea to use cowpea came when Karpol’s friend, Ido Margalit, a co-founder of BetterSeeds, discussed its resilience and nutritional value. This conversation sparked Karpol’s research into its potential for dairy alternatives, leading to the development of cowpea milk.

Better Pulse plans to market cowpea protein to food companies for use in non-dairy yogurt, coffee creamers, and milk alternatives.

The company also has access to CRISPR technology, allowing them to enhance the cowpea’s protein profile by eliminating phytic acid, a compound that limits nutrient absorption. Although CRISPR is considered non-GMO in regions like the U.S. and Israel, it is still viewed as GMO in Europe.

The startup has raised US$250,000 from personal networks, with an additional US$100,000 from an angel investor and a US$400,000 grant from the Israel Innovation Authority.

Despite challenges posed by Israel’s October 7 terror attack, including their food technologist David Etienne’s time serving in the Gaza conflict, Better Pulse has remained resilient.

The team recently completed lab tests and pilot production, aiming to scale up quickly and introduce their cowpea milk to the market within three to four months.

Karpol expressed confidence in its success, as the product has passed several taste tests, including approval from his own children.

Subscribe to our food and agriculture industry email newsletters that provide busy executives like you with the latest news insights and trends from Africa and the World. SUBSCRIBE HERE

Newer Post

Thumbnail for Israeli startup Better Pulse introduces cowpea milk as a sustainable dairy alternative

Kirinyaga County launches campaign to combat livestock diseases, boost dairy sector

Older Post

Thumbnail for Israeli startup Better Pulse introduces cowpea milk as a sustainable dairy alternative

Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers appoints Hayley Campbell-Gibbons as new CEO

Be the first to leave a comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *