Our Solutions
A Sustainable Alternative for Palm Oil in Foods
In Canada, over 27% of the population experiences obesity, with even higher prevalence among Indigenous and marginalized communities—a critical health trend mirrored worldwide. As projections suggest that by 2035, over half the global population could be overweight, finding alternatives to traditional, high-saturated-fat ingredients is imperative. Palm oil, widely used in processed foods, contributes not only to saturated fat intake but also to deforestation and biodiversity loss, accounting for 5% of global tropical deforestation. With Canada mandating saturated fat labeling by 2026, the need for healthier, sustainable alternatives like ZroFat™ has never been greater.
Challenges with Palm Oil & Saturated Fats
Palm oil is favored in food manufacturing due to its high functionality, yet it’s also high in saturated fats like palmitic acid, associated with cardiovascular risks. Beyond health, palm oil production heavily impacts natural ecosystems, leading to habitat destruction and species loss. ZroFat™ addresses these issues by offering a functional fat alternative that mimics palm oil’s qualities without its associated risks.
The Fiber-Based Innovation of ZroFat™
ZroFat™ is a carbohydrate-based, plant-derived fat replacer made from chia mucilage and konjac glucomannan. These high-viscosity, non-toxic fibers mimic the texture, mouthfeel, and stability of traditional fats while offering a significant reduction in calories and saturated fat. ZroFat™ works effectively in spreads, margarine, and baked goods, delivering a cleaner label and improved health profile.
Key Applications of ZroFat™
ZroFat™’s versatility allows it to be used in a wide range of food products, including:
- Spreads & Condiments: A sustainable substitute for palm oil in products like hazelnut spreads and salad dressings.
- Plant-Based Cheeses: Providing creaminess and fat texture in dairy alternatives without the need for saturated fats.
- Meat Alternatives: Used in emulsion gels, it replicates the mouthfeel of animal fats in plant-based meats.
Commitment to Sustainability
Beyond its health benefits, ZroFat™ supports sustainable food systems. By reducing reliance on palm oil, ZroFat™ minimizes environmental impact while enhancing ingredient sustainability. Our collaborations with local partners enable byproduct upcycling, such as reusing demucilaged chia seeds in high-fiber foods.
Partnerships and Innovations
Our commercialization partner, PEQISH Group, leads ZroFat™’s B2B market deployment and integration across product lines. Their expertise in food innovation and distribution allows us to introduce ZroFat™ effectively to the industry, showcasing its versatility and potential for health-driven, sustainable food production.
The Future of ZroFat™
ZroFat™ marks a paradigm shift in the food industry toward healthier, more sustainable fats. Our mission is to enhance consumer health and environmental sustainability by providing high-performance fat substitutes, meeting the demands of both modern consumers and the evolving food landscape.