upp Secures £500K for Innovative Broccoli Protein Project
upp, a pioneering company based in Newport, Shropshire, UK, which specializes in broccoli protein, has successfully secured £500K in funding to advance its innovative agricultural technologies. The funding round was spearheaded by Elbow Beach Capital, a key investor dedicated to supporting sustainable and forward-thinking enterprises. With these funds, upp plans to initiate pilot projects for its proprietary harvest and uppcycling™ technology within the current year, demonstrating a strong commitment to enhancing the efficiency and yield of broccoli harvesting.
In a strategic move, the company has set ambitious goals to implement three field-to-protein pilots throughout various locations including the UK, Spain, and California, with the aim of completing these initiatives by the end of 2024.
The successful execution of these pilots is critical as it lays the groundwork for the commercial production of upp's broccoli protein, which is projected to begin in late 2024. As the global demand for plant-based proteins continues to rise, upp's focus on broccoli as a significant source highlights their innovative approach to sustainable nutrition.
Founded in 2022 and under the leadership of CEO David Whitewood, Upcycled Plant Power (upp) has made remarkable strides in developing cutting-edge broccoli harvesting technology. This advanced equipment incorporates 3D cameras and machine learning algorithms to accurately identify broccoli heads that are ready for harvesting, even when they may be partially obscured by leaves. A patented tool, designed as a tractor-towed device, efficiently cuts and lifts the entire plant into a trailer, where the broccoli heads are separated from the leaf and stalk. This innovative approach not only maximizes the harvesting potential but also minimizes waste, contributing to a more sustainable agricultural practice.
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