Saputo Builds an Ingredients Division to Ride the Protein Boom
Saputo is creating a dedicated ingredients unit focused on whey protein, as nearly half of U.S. adults look for more protein in their diets.
Protein is pulling one of the world’s big dairy processors in a new direction. Saputo is creating a dedicated ingredients division built around whey protein.
TLDR
- Saputo is launching a standalone ingredients business unit.
- Steve Douglas will lead it as president and COO of ingredients.
- The focus is whey protein concentrate and lactose ingredients.
- Nearly half of U.S. adults want more protein.
Whey Moves Center Stage
The new unit will focus on higher-value protein and lactose ingredients, especially WPC80, a whey protein concentrate. Saputo is expanding manufacturing at its Waupun, Wisconsin plant. Steve Douglas will lead the division as president and chief operating officer of ingredients. He will also keep leading Saputo’s U.K. business until its sale closes in the first quarter of 2027.
“Protein consumption is not a passing trend. It is a structural shift that plays to the strengths of our portfolio,” said Carl Colizza, president and CEO.
A Narrower, Protein-Led Footprint
The restructuring reflects a pivot away from traditional cheese production as cheese prices decline. Saputo is selling its U.K. operations, its majority stake in Argentina and its Australia joint venture. The goal is to concentrate on opportunities in the United States.
Why It Matters
Nearly half of U.S. adults are seeking more protein, and the industry has faced whey protein shortages. Protein-added launches, from bars to coffee drinks, depend on that supply. More dedicated whey capacity could ease a key bottleneck for product developers.
Source: Food Dive. Read the report.