ACI Group Secures UK and Ireland Distribution for IFF’s Plant Protein Portfolio

ACI Group has signed a long-term strategic agreement with IFF, gaining exclusive distribution rights for IFF’s portfolio of high-performance soy and pea protein solutions across the UK and Ireland.

The partnership enhances ACI Group’s capability to serve both traditional meat processors and manufacturers of plant-based foods with a broad range of advanced functional ingredients. The IFF portfolio includes textured vegetable proteins (TVPs), hydrolysed vegetable proteins, and tailored blends for precise formulation, with applications in both conventional and alternative protein sectors.

Key products in the range include SUPRO Isolated Soy Proteins, SUPRO MAX Structured Vegetable Proteins, SUPRO TEX Dry Textured Proteins, RESPONSE Textured Soy Concentrates, ALPHA and PROCON Soy Protein Concentrates, and CENTEX Textured Soy Flours. All are derived from non-GMO soy and peas and offer functionality such as water binding, fat retention, emulsification and textural stability under demanding processing conditions.

“The agreement with IFF reflects our continued commitment to delivering ingredient innovation backed by technical excellence,” said Gareth Clark, Sales Director at ACI Group. “Their plant protein technologies enable our customers to respond quickly to changing consumer demands—whether that’s improving the performance of meat products or developing new plant-based lines.”

IFF’s plant proteins are designed for both industrial efficiency and culinary appeal. In meat systems, they help improve yield, texture, and fat and moisture management, while in meat alternatives, structured proteins provide the fibrous texture and neutral flavour required for clean-label, allergen-conscious formulations. They are compatible with both hot and cold processing, including extrusion, and are suited for products such as sausages, burgers, nuggets, pulled-style meats and vegan mince.