Essentia Protein Solutions is a leading U.S.-based manufacturer and global supplier of animal-derived protein ingredients, with headquarters in Ankeny, Iowa. With a legacy spanning over 35 years, Essentia specializes in transforming natural raw materials into high-quality functional proteins, broths, and collagen ingredients for the food, nutrition, and pet food industries. The company’s mission is to “improve the quality of life through protein solutions,” with operations and distribution spanning North America, Europe, South America, and Asia.
Core Business and Offerings
Essentia’s product portfolio addresses a wide spectrum of functional and nutritional needs in food manufacturing. Key product categories include:
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Functional Animal Proteins:
- Beef, pork, and poultry-based proteins that enhance yield, texture, juiciness, and binding in processed meats and ready meals.
- Branded lines include Essentia® B, Essentia® P, and Essentia® C.
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Natural Stocks and Broths:
- Clean-label, slow-cooked stocks and broths from beef, chicken, and pork used in soups, sauces, and ready-to-eat meals.
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Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides:
- Bioavailable peptides derived from bovine and porcine sources for joint, skin, and bone health.
- Marketed under brands like OmniBroth™ and CollaGEM™.
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Meat and Bone Extracts:
- Concentrated meat flavors and nutrients used in flavor systems, seasonings, and bouillons.
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Blood Plasma Proteins:
- Functional protein used as a binder and emulsifier in processed meats and pet foods.
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Specialty Fats:
- Natural animal fats for flavor enhancement and culinary applications.
All products are manufactured under strict quality controls, with a focus on traceability, sustainability, and functional performance.
Specialization and USP
Essentia is renowned for:
- Proprietary processing technologies like enzymatic hydrolysis and vacuum concentration.
- Clean-label and allergen-free formulations that meet consumer demand for transparency.
- Functional protein systems that optimize moisture retention, yield, texture, and mouthfeel in finished products.
- High protein purity and digestibility, particularly in its collagen and broth lines.
The company combines technical formulation expertise with robust supply chain capabilities to deliver customizable solutions.
Financials
Essentia is a part of The Lauridsen Group, a global collection of bio-science companies. Based on industry estimates and corporate reporting:
- Annual revenue exceeds USD 250 million
- Global production capacity: over 50,000 metric tons of protein ingredients annually
- Facilities in the U.S., Brazil, Germany, Denmark, France, and Spain
Essentia reinvests heavily in R&D and production efficiency, supporting continuous innovation and expansion.
Shipment and Trade Data
Essentia maintains a robust global export network. According to trade databases:
- Active exports to over 60 countries, including Germany, China, Japan, Mexico, and South Korea
- Export products include hydrolyzed collagen, functional meat proteins, and flavor extracts
- Documented shipments exceed USD 200 million in the past 5 years across key categories
The company supplies to multinational food corporations, regional processors, and pet food manufacturers worldwide.
Target Market
Essentia’s ingredients serve a wide variety of industries, including:
- Meat and poultry processing
- Soups, sauces, and prepared foods
- Nutritional supplements and functional foods
- Sports nutrition and beauty-from-within sectors
- Premium pet food manufacturers
Their ingredients are designed for applications such as:
- Clean-label meat products with improved yield
- Collagen-based nutricosmetics and supplements
- High-protein broths for retail and foodservice
- Flavor enhancement systems for culinary bases
Capabilities
- BRC- and FSSC 22000-certified production facilities
- Spray-drying, enzymatic hydrolysis, and filtration technologies
- In-house R&D and application labs for custom solutions
- Technical service teams offering formulation support globally
Annual production output includes:
- 20,000+ MT of functional proteins
- 10,000+ MT of hydrolyzed collagen
- 8,000+ MT of broths and meat extracts
Certifications and Compliance
Essentia maintains strict adherence to global food safety and quality standards:
- BRCGS (Grade A)
- FSSC 22000 and ISO 9001
- USDA and FDA-compliant manufacturing
- Halal and Kosher certifications
- EU and CFIA (Canada) regulatory compliance
- Non-GMO and Clean Label verified for select products
Products undergo rigorous testing for microbiological, chemical, and physical parameters to meet global export requirements.
Customer Testimonials
Industry clients and partners report:
- “Highly functional protein systems that reduce formulation costs while improving texture”
- “Best-in-class bone broths with deep flavor and clarity”
- “Reliable global delivery with excellent documentation and technical support”
Long-standing relationships with global food manufacturers highlight Essentia’s consistency and innovation leadership.
Major Achievements
- Recognized as a Top Global Supplier of Functional Animal Proteins
- Launched OmniBroth™, one of the cleanest hydrolyzed bone broth protein powders on the market
- Pioneered blood plasma protein applications in meat and pet food
- Developed collagen peptide solutions for joint, skin, and sports nutrition
- Invested in carbon footprint reduction and zero-waste initiatives at manufacturing sites
Essentia Protein Solutions continues to set the standard for high-performance, sustainable protein ingredients that meet the evolving needs of food innovation, health, and wellness worldwide.
