Australia-based vegan meat developer Nourish Ingredients has teamed up with Chinese biotechnology company CABIO Biotech, to enter the Asia-Pacific market.

CABIO specialises in microbial fermentation and synthetic biology-based products, while Nourish Ingredients specialises in speciality fats and precision fermentation.

Under the partnership, the two companies will produce and distribute Nourish Ingredients’ lead product Tastilux in the Chinese market.

Tastilux is an advanced ingredient extracted from natural sources through fermentation to provide meat flavour, aroma, and cooking experience for alternative proteins.

Nourish Ingredients CEO James Petrie said: “Our strategic partnership with CABIO Biotech marks a pivotal moment for Nourish Ingredients.

“By leveraging CABIO’s established expertise, we’re not only derisking our supply chain for expansion but also enhancing our ability to deliver high-quality, innovative food solutions at scale.”

According to CABIO, China’s annual meat consumption is reaching 100 million tons, and even a 1% shift to plant-based alternatives would create a one-million-ton market by 2026.

The strategic partnership between CABIO and Nourish Ingredients aims to deliver animal-like flavours for plant-based meat products.

Beyond meat alternatives, the collaboration will expand into ready-to-eat meal and pre-made dish industries, the snack industry, and the growing spice and condiment market.

CABIO said it will leverage its expertise in R&D, formula design and intelligent manufacturing, along with quality control, safety, and regulatory compliance.

Also, the company will use its experience to rapidly promote the successful launch of products, meeting the global demand for high-quality food ingredients.

Petrie added: “This collaboration combines our cutting-edge product development with CABIO’s innovation excellence and market insights, positioning us to meet the surging global demand for superior food ingredients.

“Together, we’re set to efficiently produce top-tier products, opening doors to both the dynamic Chinese market and broader international opportunities.”