Plant-Based Snacks Fuel Protein Revolution in Healthcare
Netherlands, Friday, 28 June 2024.
Fabafull, a Dutch company, is transforming healthcare nutrition with innovative plant-based snacks. Targeting hospitals and care facilities, they’re addressing protein deficiency among patients and the elderly while promoting sustainable food choices. Their products, made from field beans with 30% protein content, are part of a broader shift towards more frequent, protein-rich meals in healthcare settings.
Innovative Approach to Healthcare Nutrition
Fabafull’s plant-based snacks are set to play a critical role in healthcare nutrition, focusing on the needs of patients and the elderly. The company, based in the Netherlands, has developed a range of products including muffins, cakes, and brownies that are rich in protein and tailored specifically for hospitals. This innovative approach aims not only to meet the nutritional needs of patients but also to support the larger trend of sustainable food systems.
The Role of Field Beans
Central to Fabafull’s product line is the field bean, a sustainable protein source with a protein content of 30%. Field beans are not only rich in protein but also contribute to environmental sustainability by improving soil quality through nitrogen fixation. This makes them an ideal alternative to animal-based proteins, which are associated with higher greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental impacts[1].
Targeting Hospitals for Maximum Impact
Fabafull’s strategic focus on hospitals stems from their significant influence on healthcare trends. Hospitals are increasingly recognizing the importance of nutrition in patient recovery and overall health, leading to a shift towards providing six protein-rich meals per day instead of the traditional three[2]. This transition is expected to improve patient outcomes, particularly for those recovering from surgery or suffering from malnutrition.
Addressing Malnutrition
Malnutrition is a growing concern, especially among older adults and vulnerable individuals. In the Netherlands, up to 35% of elderly people receiving home care and 38% of hospitalized patients show signs of malnutrition[3]. Fabafull’s plant-based snacks provide a viable solution to this issue by offering a convenient and palatable way to increase protein intake, thereby supporting better health outcomes.
Guidance from the Business Innovation Program Food
Roland, the entrepreneur behind Fabafull, has been guided by the Business Innovation Program Food (BIPF) and Stef Mellema, a business developer at ROM InWest. This mentorship has enabled Roland to refine his product offerings and strategically target the healthcare market. Inspired by his partner’s success in vegan comfort food, Roland has focused on creating products that have both functional applications and societal impact[4].
Conclusion: A Step Towards Sustainable Healthcare
Fabafull’s plant-based snacks not only address immediate nutritional needs but also contribute to the broader protein transition. By leveraging field beans, the company supports a more sustainable food system while enhancing patient care. This innovative approach exemplifies the potential for agritech and healthtech to intersect, driving forward both healthcare quality and environmental sustainability.