MINNEAPOLIS — Cargill has signed a joint venture agreement with Puris, the largest North American producer of pea protein. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

With Cargill’s financial backing, Puris expects to add substantial capacity, including a second plant, while maintaining focus on US production, said Tyler Lorenzen, president of Puris.

Tyler Lorenzen, president of Puris

“Cargill is investing in everything Puris stands for, from our vertically integrated non-GMO pea seed development to our proprietary technologies and our commitment to US Certified Organic pea farmers,” he said. “With Cargill’s support, our plant-based ingredients become available to customers and consumers on a global scale. Our founder set out to feed the world in 1986. Now it’s coming true.”

Formerly known as World Food Processing, Puris produces pea protein, starches, fibers and other non-GMO ingredients from soy, pulses, lentils and corn for use in a range of applications, including powders, mixes, energy bars and cereals. All products are vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free and allergen-free.

David Henstrom, vice president, Cargill Starches, Sweeteners and Texturizers

“Puris is a game changer in terms of taste and vertical integration in pea protein,” said David Henstrom, vice president, Cargill Starches, Sweeteners and Texturizers. “Cargill is excited to expand into the emerging pea protein space while continuing to support our conventional agricultural crops. It’s clear that Puris is in alignment with Cargill’s vision to meet the growing demand for protein globally and to help customers deliver label-friendly products without sacrificing taste.”