Lekker Lupine and Inveja Introduce Dutch Lupin Flour. In a groundbreaking development for sustainable and locally produced plant-based proteins, Lekker Lupine, in partnership with Inveja, has unveiled lupin flour made from Dutch-grown lupins. This marks a major milestone in the effort to establish a robust, allergen-free protein source within the Netherlands.

A First for Dutch Agricultur

Until now, nearly all lupins processed in the Netherlands were imported from countries like Australia and France. However, with the advent of Dutch Lupin, this paradigm is shifting. For the first time, Dutch organic lupins are being processed into flour, bits, and grits, offering versatile applications in bread, bakery products, plant-based meat, and dairy alternatives.

The Vision Behind Dutch Lupin

Dutch Lupin represents a collaboration rooted in shared expertise and commitment. INVEJA, a subsidiary of a French cooperative with production facilities in Twello, and Lekker Lupine, founded by André Jurrius of Ekoboerderij de Lingehof and Marieke Laméris of Proeflab Wageningen in 2021, have united under this initiative. Together, they aim to restore lupins—a highly nutritious and versatile legume—to Dutch farmlands and dining tables.

Sustainable and Nutritious: The “Golden Bean” of Dutch Farmers

Known as the “golden bean,” lupins boast a high protein content and a complete amino acid profile. Beyond nutritional value, lupin cultivation enriches soil health and biodiversity, making it a sustainable choice for both consumers and farmers.

Scaling Impact Through Collaboration

The LuPeel farmers’ association, which focuses on sustainable agriculture in the Peel region, has joined forces with Lekker Lupine to strengthen the local lupin value chain. Together, they are working to increase lupin cultivation and its visibility as a food ingredient. By bundling resources, they aim to overcome initial challenges in establishing lupins as a viable alternative to traditional crops like maize and potatoes.

In 2024, approximately 50 hectares of lupins will be cultivated by 15 farmers across the Netherlands, primarily on sandy soils and river clays from Groningen to Maastricht. Lekker Lupine expects to harvest over 100 tons of lupins this year, laying the groundwork for greater adoption of organic farming practices among Dutch farmers.

Supporting the EU Protein Strategy

The lupin initiative aligns with national and European strategies to reduce reliance on imported plant proteins. By fostering local lupin cultivation, Dutch Lupin contributes to food security, regional economies, and environmental sustainability. This collaboration ensures that retailers, caterers, and food processors have access to locally produced lupin flour and innovative products like spreads and plant-based protein ingredients.

Knowledge Sharing and Product Developmen

Lekker Lupine and its partners are committed to advancing lupin cultivation and usage:

• Knowledge Exchange: Sharing insights with organic, biodynamic, and nature-inclusive farmers.
• Product Innovation: Expanding the market with a broader range of lupin-based products, including flours, spreads, and plant-based meat and dairy alternatives.
• Community Engagement: Partnering with stakeholders across the food chain, including knowledge institutions, government agencies, and consumers, to highlight the benefits of lupins for human consumption.

Inspiring the Future

Lekker Lupine’s mission extends beyond production, offering educational sessions, tastings, and lectures to inspire farmers, chefs, and food technologists. Supported by organizations like the Ministry of Agriculture, the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development, and provincial governments, Dutch Lupin is not just a product but a movement toward sustainable food systems.

With initiatives like Dutch Lupin, the Netherlands is taking a significant step toward a greener and more self-sufficient future. Lupins are more than a crop—they are a symbol of innovation and collaboration in the journey toward a sustainable food system. For more information and inspiration, visit lekkerlupine.nl.