FOXHOL, 03/02/07 - Potato processor Avebe is to extract proteins from potatoes. The product will be an important addition for the food and pharmaceutical industry, the company hopes.

Avebe is setting up a subsidiary, Solanic. Its 50 highly-qualified staff apply what Avebe terms a unique method whereby the proteins come out of the potatoes intact. They go into products such as meringue, baby-food and biscuits. Pharmaceutical companies can make products from them which combat skin inflammation, such as nappies and aids for stoma patients.

Avebe claims to be the only company in the world that can offer such proteins on a vegetable basis. "There are advantages compared with animal proteins from chickens or milk. For example, there is no risk of animal diseases such as bird flu or BSE. As well, they can be used in products for people with allergies," said a spokesman for the cooperative.

Avebe is declining to say how large the market is "from competition considerations." But much is expected from it, in view of the "double-digit millions" that are being put into it. "It is a product with a high return. It will contribute to our earnings," predicted the spokesman.

The cooperative says there is much interest in the proteins. "We are in talks with large food and pharmaceuticals companies over the whole world." Firm contracts have not yet been signed because Solanic, to be based in the Drenthe village of Gasselternijveen, is not yet in production.