NEW TECH FOODS

Japanese food manufacturer Ajinomoto has expanded its Solein-powered product line with the launch of a new ready-to-drink coffee under its sustainable brand Atlr.72.

The new product, Atlr.72 GRe:en Drop Coffee, is a dairy-free iced latte that blends traditional coffee with 'beanless' coffee made from rice and chickpeas. The drink uses Solein, a protein ingredient developed by Finnish foodtech company Solar Foods, to provide a creamy texture without dairy.

According to Ajinomoto, the blend – composed of 70% coffee and 30% beanless coffee – reduces carbon emissions by around 25% compared with conventional coffee production. GRe:en Drop Coffee is available for a limited preview in Singapore

Solar Foods’ chief sales officer Juan Benitez Garcia said the collaboration with Ajinomoto, which began in 2023, highlights Solein’s versatility across product categories. "The Atlr.72 products showcase Solein’s versatility from replacing dairy or egg yolk to being a nutritious protein ingredient. Solein brings superior nutritional values, taste and functionality, with minimal environmental impact."

The launch follows earlier Solein-based products under the Atlr.72 brand, including Flowering Mooncakes and Ice Cream Sandwiches introduced in 2024, and Flowering Ice Cream, which debuted earlier this year.

Ajinomoto plans to expand the range beyond desserts and beverages into everyday meals.