Danish plant-based food brand Naturli’ Foods has commenced producing vegan “beef-style” goods at a manufacturing facility in North Rocks, Sydney.
The brand-new facility represents a joint venture between the Danish brand and Australian food distributor Botany Group.
To kick things off, the purpose-built facility is now manufacturing Naturli’ Plant Based Mince. The production of Naturli’ Plant Based Burgers, Naturli’ Chick’n Style Mince, and a range of other products for sale in major supermarkets and independents, is expected to commence shortly.
Botany Group CEO Anthony Manassen says the decision to manufacture Naturli’ products in Australia aligned with a commitment to sustainability that both companies share.
“The global pandemic has caused major disruptions to international supply chains – and those repercussions are still being felt,” he says.
“The decision to produce Naturli’ goods here in Sydney will keep our supply chains local and will help to future-proof our business. It also means that Australian consumers can enjoy innovative plant-based products with a smaller carbon footprint.
“Botany Group is excited to have the capability to tailor Naturli’ goods specifically for the Australian consumer. Whether it’s updates to recipes or packaging, having local manufacturing facilities means that we can respond rapidly and decisively to the needs of our local market.”
As an entirely vegan manufacturing facility, the North Rocks location will be free from animal-based ingredients such as meat, eggs, and dairy. With much of the plant equipment originating from Denmark, the two international teams had to co-operate remotely to get systems up and running.
Naturli’ Foods CEO Henrik Lund says given restrictions on global travel, our experts here in Denmark made regular video calls to Australia, providing instructions for the installation and operation of our machinery.
“Although it has been a complex project, Naturli’ is thrilled to work closely with Botany Group,” he says. “We believe there will be future opportunities for innovation that will directly benefit shoppers down under.”