Cowpea-Based Milks
Better Pulse is Using the Abundant Cowpea for Plant-Based Milk Alternative
Colin Smith — October 25, 2024
Better Pulse, an Israeli startup, has introduced cowpea milk as a sustainable dairy alternative. Made from black-eyed peas, cowpea milk is notable for its resilience and nutritional profile. The crop requires minimal water and fertilizer, making it an environmentally friendly option. Additionally, cowpea milk is non-GMO and contains almost all essential amino acids, offering a near-complete protein source.
The company's cowpea milk stands out for its ability to emulsify and foam, similar to dairy milk, without leaving a strong bean or grassy aftertaste. This makes it a more palatable alternative to other plant-based milks. Better Pulse aims to market cowpea protein for use in non-dairy yogurt, coffee creamers, and other milk alternatives, leveraging its unique properties to meet the growing demand for sustainable food products.
Better Pulse's cowpea milk also aligns with global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with traditional dairy production. According to a University of Oxford study, dairy milk production generates nearly three times the greenhouse gas emissions of plant-based milks. By offering a sustainable and nutritious alternative, Better Pulse contributes to the shift towards more environmentally responsible food systems.
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