![Nasi Lemak Rendang Bebola [Coconut milk rice with HG meatball rendang]. (Source: Nestle)](http://yaffa-cdn.s3.amazonaws.com/yaffadsp/images/dmImage/StandardImage/51100368787_2799b8c13c_o.jpg)
A new facility in Malaysia will extend Nestlé’s plant-based production capacity to 8000 tonnes of plant-based food a year, as it aims to supply food service and retail with its Harvest Gourmet brand.
Based in the existing Shah Alam Industrial Complex in Selangor, the new 6000 square metre production site will develop plant-based burgers, schnitzels, mince and more, with Nestlé looking to lead ‘the quiet food revolution’ in Asia. The $48 million investment will feature the latest food processing machinery and automated packing lines.
The company has already expanded its China operations, investing $155.6 million to grow its pet food plant in Tianjin, as well as a new facility for plant-based products.
Meanwhile in Australia, Nestlé has developed a plant-based rendition of its Milo product, and introduced its plant-based patties under the Harvest Gourmet brand.
In a study by GlobalData, 40 per cent of respondents in countries from Asia and Oceania said they were shifting to more plant-based foods, as well as 11 per cent indicating a shift to vegetarian or vegan diet.
“We're really going 'beyond the bun' to capture local tastes and convince people to try plant-based options,” said Nestlé CEO for Asia, Oceania and Africa Chris Johnson.
“We believe that the more people embrace plant-based food, the better for them and the planet. That's why we are at the forefront of this shift and investing for the future.”
Tahira Shiraz-Longden, vice president, Food – Nestlé Professional (Asia, Oceania and Africa) said the demand for plant-based foods was now no longer a food trend but a social shift.
“Whether it is motivated by personal health or for a more sustainable planet, we are excited to bring our plant-based knowledge and expertise to this region and adapt to local tastes,” said Shiraz-Longden.
“We are confident that with its sensational tastes and textures, Harvest Gourmet will make the region fall in love with plant-based food.”
Nestlé Australia ranked in at #11 in Australia’s Top 100 Food & Drink Companies 2020 report.
