Wide Open Agriculture Ltd (ASX: WOA) has announced the development of a new lupin protein milk formulation and the lodging of a patent application to protect the product’s composition and production process.
According to the company, the formulation was created using its proprietary lupin protein isolate and aims to address long-standing technological challenges in producing lupin-based milk alternatives.
The product is reported to deliver a clean flavour, creamy texture, and strong foaming performance suitable for barista-style beverages and functional drinks.
WOA Chair Yaxi Zhan said the company’s innovation marked a significant advancement in the plant-based milk sector.
“The barrier to entry for any lupin-based milk has always been a technological one. The team at WOA has now overcome that barrier,” Zhan said.
“Our formulation cannot be replicated without our proprietary protein and process know-how, which positions WOA at the forefront of this exciting new global milk analogue category.”
The company stated that the patent application, filed under the Patent Cooperation Treaty, covers both the formulation and the novel production process.
It was prepared by a specialist patent and trademark law firm and is intended to strengthen WOA’s intellectual property portfolio and support its broader “whole of lupin seed” production strategy.
Zhan said protecting the company’s innovation is essential for its long-term business strategy. “Each new patent brings us closer to our vision of transforming lupin into one of the world’s most important food proteins. Protecting that innovation is not just good science — it’s smart business,” she said.
The ASX-listed company said the new formulation builds on WOA’s partnership with Univar Solutions China, which is focused on commercialising the company’s lupin-based products in the Chinese market.
The partnership targets the fast-growing tea and coffee beverage sector, which Univar estimates could reach RMB 321 billion (approximately AUD 68 billion) by 2025.
WOA described its lupin protein milk as a “technological breakthrough,” claiming that it achieves high protein content and a neutral taste profile without the beany or chalky aftertaste that has limited other lupin-based products.
The company also highlighted the environmental and nutritional benefits of lupin protein, which it said has a complete amino acid profile and a comparatively low carbon and water footprint.
WOA said it will begin commercialisation of the product through global B2B partnerships and distribution channels, aiming to reduce production costs and expand access to high-value food ingredients.
The content of this article is based on information supplied by Wide Open Agriculture Ltd (WOA). For more information, please refer to the official company announcement and communications from WOA. Please consult a licensed and/or registered professional in this area before making any decisions based on the content of this article.
