Unlock sustainability, nutrition, and market differentiation with this patented upcycling technology.

Summary

UpcycleBites transforms discarded watermelon rind into high-protein, high-fiber puffed snacks with pea protein and starch. This patented process enhances amino acid completeness, improves digestibility, and retains bioactives—delivering a clean-label solution for the booming plant-based market.

Why It Matters

• Food Waste Opportunity: Watermelon rind accounts for 40% of fruit weight and is typically landfilled.
• Consumer Demand: Plant-based protein sales are projected to exceed $20B by 2029, with strong growth in sustainable and functional snacks.
• Current Gap: Existing plant proteins lack digestibility and amino acid balance, limiting adoption.

Technology Highlights

• Enhances Nutritional Value: Increases availability of muscle-supporting compounds such as L-citrulline, antioxidant polyphenols, reduces antinutrients, and improves flavor.
• Extrusion Integration: Produces shelf-stable, puffed snacks using standard equipment—no new capital required.
• Customizable Formulations: Adaptable for different protein sources and starch bases. Can be coated with various flavors.

Key Advantages for Industry

• Premium Positioning: Clean-label, sustainability-driven narrative.
• Operational Fit: Plug-and-play with existing manufacturing lines.
• Market Differentiation: Combines health benefits with waste valorization.

Applications

Functional snacks, sports nutrition, and upcycled ingredients for CPG and private-label brands.

Patent Status: Provisional application filed

Seeking: Licensing and strategic partnerships for scale-up and commercialization.