New School Foods opens manufacturing facility in Toronto

New School Foods completes a US$6 million seed extension round with funding from investors such as Inter IKEA, Good Startup, NewTree Capital and Hatch. This builds on a previously announced non-dilutive capital from Protein Industries Canada. The company also unveils its 28,000-sf pilot production facility in Toronto. The new facility and additional capital will support New School’s upcoming launch of its plant-based whole-cut salmon filet in U.S. and Canadian restaurants.

“New School Foods is a true pioneer in the alternative protein industry, and we were impressed by the team, their products, and the production technology they’ve developed. We are curious to explore and learn more about the potentials for plant-based alternatives,” said Robert Carleke, innovation ventures manager at Inter IKEA.

“We are delighted to gain the support of IKEA, a world-renowned brand, operator, and leader in the plant-based space. The response to our initial tastings with chefs and restaurants across the U.S. and Canada have been incredibly positive. It’s a testament to our team’s commitment to creating a product that truly amazes both chefs and customers, providing a delicious and joyous experience,” said Chris Bryson, CEO of New School Foods.

New School Foods’ facility the company’s V1 commercial assembly Line, based on New School’s patented scaffolding and directional freezing technologies to recreate the muscle fibres and connective tissues that form the basis for the texture of seafood and meat. The facility also houses the team’s new scientific research lab, engineering lab, and business operations team to enable cross-collaboration.