#Japan #Tokyo #Leaft Foods #Lacto Japan #Rubisco Protein

Leaft Foods and Lacto Japan: A Game-Changing Collaboration

Leaft Foods, a trailblazer in the plant-based protein sector, has officially partnered with Lacto Japan Co., Ltd., a significant player in the Japanese food ingredient distribution landscape. This strategic collaboration marks a pivotal moment in introducing Leaft's unique Leaf Rubisco Protein Isolate to the technologically advanced and innovation-driven Japanese food manufacturing industry.

The innovative Leaf Rubisco Protein Isolate, extracted directly from green leaves, is being hailed as a transformative advancement in the protein sector. This plant-based protein is not only rich in nutrients but also boasts functional properties that surpass traditional animal proteins like whey. A significant advantage of Leaf Rubisco is its superior amino acid composition, which sets a new benchmark for the protein nutrition landscape.

Furthermore, Leaf Rubisco provides remarkable functionality in food applications. It can effectively replace eggs, emulsifiers, and gelling agents, making it an ideal choice for food manufacturers looking to eliminate artificial ingredients. This clean-label protein has been consumed by humans for centuries, reinforcing its safety and nutritional value.

The partnership leverages Lacto Japan's extensive market expertise gathered over decades, connecting New Zealand and Australian ingredient suppliers with major players in Japan's food sector. With Lacto's established network and trusted reputation, they are perfectly positioned to facilitate Leaft's introduction into a market recognized globally for its commitment to food innovation.

John Penno, co-founder of Leaft Foods, expressed his enthusiasm about collaborating with Lacto Japan, remarking on their invaluable support in navigating the complexities of the Japanese market. He highlighted the importance of Lacto's market intelligence and relationship management skills that will be crucial for successful penetration into this sophisticated consumer base.

Takeshi Shimizu, General Manager Oceania at Lacto Japan, shared his excitement regarding the new protein product. He noted that their early experimentation with Leaf Rubisco showed promising results, aligning perfectly with the high quality, texture, and flavor standards expected by Japanese consumers.

As they embark on this venture, the two companies are already in discussions with several prominent Japanese food manufacturers across various segments including plant-based foods, bakery products, and sports nutrition. This early engagement is a positive indicator of the market's receptiveness to an innovative protein like Rubisco, with ambitions to develop a business worth tens of millions of dollars in the coming five years.

About Leaft Foods

Leaft Foods stands at the forefront of the protein revolution by harnessing the planet's most abundant protein derived from green leaves. The company is committed to producing sustainable alternatives to conventional dairy protein with a significantly lower carbon footprint. Founded in New Zealand by business veterans John Penno and Maury Leyland, Leaft has transformed from a kitchen-based experiment to a proven sustainable protein solution for agricultural economies worldwide. With ongoing support from notable investors, including Silicon Valley's Khosla Ventures and NBA star Steven Adams, Leaft is swiftly scaling up its operations, particularly in the United States.

About Lacto Japan Co., Ltd.

Established in 1998, Lacto Japan is a renowned supplier of high-quality dairy and food ingredients throughout Asia. The company excels in importing, distributing, and marketing various food materials, establishing strong partnerships with global producers. With a sound reputation for reliability and quality, Lacto Japan serves as a vital link between international ingredient producers and the Japanese food industry. The company is publicly listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, further solidifying its position in the market.

This partnership between Leaft Foods and Lacto Japan signifies a new era for plant-based proteins in Japan, paving the way for innovative and sustainable food solutions.