Israel’s CBC Group, Brevel partner to develop microalgae-based functional beverages and dairy alternatives

ISRAEL – Israel’s largest beverage company, CBC Group, has entered into a 10-year purchasing agreement with Israeli startup Brevel to develop functional beverages and dairy alternatives using microalgae-derived protein, oils, and antioxidants. 

Under the partnership, Brevel will supply CBC with its innovative algae-based ingredients, grown in a proprietary system in southern Israel.  

The system has the capacity to produce hundreds of tons of neutral-tasting, highly functional algae protein, which Brevel claims can compete with established plant-based proteins like pea and soy. 

The agreement builds upon CBC’s existing relationship with Brevel as an investor. The beverage giant participated in Brevel’s US$18.5 million seed funding round in 2023, further demonstrating its commitment to food innovation. 

“As we pursue our strategy of continuous innovation to deliver superior products that respond to evolving trends and customer demands, partnering with Brevel is a natural fit,” said Lihi Rothschild, CBC’s head of innovation. 

Brevel’s production process combines light and sugar fermentation in indoor bioreactors, allowing large-scale cultivation of microalgae without genetic modification.  

Naturally rich in protein, lipids, fiber, and bioactive antioxidants, microalgae is increasingly recognized as a sustainable and nutrient-dense food source. 

The company’s process results in a neutral-tasting white powder containing 60-70% microalgae protein concentrate.  

The powder mimics the textures, flavors, and functionality of animal proteins, making it a suitable ingredient for plant-based meat and dairy alternatives. 

Brevel’s technology enables large-scale production using light, a significant advancement in fermentation technology that is traditionally limited to dark environments. 

In 2024, Brevel established a commercial production facility in southern Israel  with an annual capacity of hundreds of tons of microalgae powder.  

The facility serves as a demonstration site to validate the company’s technology for real-world applications. 

“This co-venture will be instrumental in keeping Brevel at the forefront of developments,” said Yonatan Golan, CEO and co-founder of Brevel.  

“Our first commercial pilot plant is already primed to meet the first wave of our joint business development goals, delivering great-tasting, better-for-you, sustainably sourced products to the growing population of health-conscious consumers.” 

The global microalgae market is projected to reach US$25.4 billion by 2033, with growing demand for sustainable food solutions.  

CBC Group is Israel’s largest beverage company and the national franchiser for major global brands, including Coca-Cola, Carlsberg, and Müller.  

The company also operates leading domestic juice and dairy brands and has a strong market presence in Eastern Europe, South Africa, and the MENA region. 

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