Tyson expands its interest in Beyond Meat

11/12/2017
Exactly a year after setting up Tyson New Ventures as a $150 million venture capital fund focused on “alternative proteins” and other breakthrough food technologies, meat and packer firm Tyson has announced an increase in its stake in Beyond Meat.

California-based Beyond Meat specialises in plant-based protein launched towards the end of 2016, with Tyson taking a 5% share. The start-up recently launched a new fundraising initiative and Tyson took part again. It has not said how much its has invested but has confirmed an increase in its stake in the company.

“Global demand for all protein remains high and we’re passionate about meeting that demand sustainably,” said Justin Whitmore, executive vice president corporate strategy and chief sustainability officer of Tyson Foods. “Our investment in Beyond Meat provides another fantastic alternative for consumers as we strive to sustainably feed the world. What we’re most excited about is that we can do all of this while continuing to provide the great tasting, high quality food that is the hallmark of our company.”