Protein Bread Brand EQUII Expands Its High-Protein, Low-Carb Offerings

EQUII, a food tech startup renowned for its protein bread that focuses on high complete protein and low carbs, is expanding its product line. This new range, which debuted at Expo East last week, includes Plain and Multigrain protein bread, delivering consumers a blend of nutrition without compromising on flavor. The company is also set to launch two more products that will be up for pre-order on its official website.

Each slice of EQUII’s protein bread boasts ten grams of plant-based protein as well as all nine essential amino acids. One slice also contains between 120 and 130 calories, depending on the variety, as well as only 16 to 17 grams of carbs, 1.5 to three grams of fat and two grams of sugar per serving. 

“EQUII’s classification as a complete protein source is a game changer,” the company said in a press release. “It provides consumers with a convenient and delicious way to meet their protein needs while ensuring they get all the essential amino acids their bodies need. Whether you’re an athlete looking to fuel your performance or a health-conscious consumer looking for a nutritious option, EQUII has you covered.”

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EQUII’s Story

Founded in 2021 by food scientists Monica Bhatia, PhD, and Baljit Ghotra, PhD, alongside renowned chef Sebastian Canonne, Meilleur Ouvrier de France (MOF), EQUII was initially named Cella Farms. The innovative trio formulated a unique method to identify nutritious microbial protein sources, which are harnessed to ferment grains. 

Simply put, EQUII uses a natural fermentation process to transform grain starches and sugars into full-protein flour. This resulted in protein bread that contains three to six times more protein, about 30 percent fewer carbs and 50 percent less total sugar than other leading bread brands.

In 2022, EQUII secured a significant investment of $6 million from Khosla Ventures, a previous supporter of Impossible Foods, pushing the company’s total funding to $8 million. The investor roster also includes kdT Ventures, 1derlife Partners, Accelr8 Partners and Axial Ventures. Furthermore, angel investors with interests in agriculture technology, food technology, artificial intelligence, precision fermentation and synthetic biology have also backed the brand. 

Beyond its current range, EQUII has hinted at introducing other bread varieties in the future, like buns, bagels and rolls. The company also plans to provide its high-protein flour to other grain-based product manufacturers.

Protein Bread Market

EQUII was not the first, nor will it be the last startup to capitalize on the growing demand for high-protein, low-carb bread. Some other brands that offer these types of products include:

• Sola offers a range of low-carb, high-protein breads in various flavors;
• ThinSlim Foods is known for its “Love-the-Taste” bread, low in carbs and higher in protein;
• Keto Bread by Franz Bakery is specifically formulated for those on a ketogenic diet;
• Smart Baking Company’s “Smartbuns” are a popular low-carb, high-protein option;
• Julian Bakery offers both paleo and keto bread options that are low in carbs and rich in protein;
• L’Oven Fresh (Aldi’s brand) offers Zero Net Carb bread that’s popular among the keto community; and
• Great Low Carb Bread Company specializes in low-carb bread options that also contain a good amount of protein.

The demand for these types of products has surged in the past few years, primarily due to the rising popularity of low-carb and keto diets. Additionally, an increased awareness of health and wellness among consumers has led to a higher demand for functional foods that offer nutritional benefits while fitting into specific dietary needs.