Tofurky, one of the top three plant-based meat companies in the U.S. based on sales, announced today that it’s been acquired by tofu producer Morinaga Nutritional Foods.
Morinaga, the makers of Mori-Nu Silken Tofu, have acquired both Tofurky and its sister brand Moocho.
Tofurky and Morinaga Nutritional Foods have a long-standing relationship with Morinaga providing tofu to Tofurky for 17 years. Under the acquisition Tofurky will continue manufacturing products at its sustainably-focused facility in Hood River, Oregon, where Morinaga Nutritional Foods plans to increase operations with technical staff to maximize capacity. The company will also uphold the core values, original recipes, and product availability of both Tofurky and Moocho brands.
“We’ve been working with the team at Morinaga for nearly two decades, and over that course of time realized the multiple synergies our organizations have across our businesses — from supply chain and operations to new product development targets,” said Jaime Athos, president and chief executive officer of Tofurky. “We’re very proud of what we’ve achieved thus far as an independent and family-operated company, but as we enter our next stage of growth, Morinaga will provide the platform needed to help us expand more aggressively in the US and beyond.”
Based in Torrance, Calif., Morinaga produces soy products, including shelf-stable tofu sold in both retail and foodservice channels, as well as probiotics and postbiotic ingredients. The company operates a tofu manufacturing facility in Tualatin, Ore., and a sales and research and development office in Torrance.
“Tofurky has a proven track record of success in the US and is a significant player in the plant-based category with many loyal fans,” said Hiroyuki Imanishi, president and CEO of Morinaga Nutritional Foods. “We’re excited to help bolster both Tofurky and Moocho’s presence in the US while strengthening manufacturing efficiencies and boosting new product development to meet ever-increasing marketplace demand.”
Founded in 1980, Tofurky is a leading manufacturer of plant-based meats. According to a press release, all Tofurky’s foods “are made with the highest quality ingredients and are indulgent ways for everyone from vegans to flexitarians to enjoy their favorite comfort recipes.” In addition, all Tofurky products “are 100 percent non-GMO, vegan and use local and organic ingredients whenever possible.”
