Chipotle’s Green Investment: Supporting Aquatic Plant Protein

Chipotle is exploring the potential of a new aquatic-based plant protein called Lemna (popularly referred to as duckweed). The chain’s Cultivate Next leg will be making minority investments in two companies: Plantible, which specializes in Lemna use, and CH4 Global, one that focuses on combating climate change via methane reduction. 

With a vertically integrated manufacturing platform, Plantible uses Lemna to produce Rubi Protein, a natural, plant-based protein that mimics the consistency, taste, and appearance of animal-based ones. Compared to traditional proteins, Rubi Protein is reportedly cleaner, healthier, and allergen-friendly. It also has the ability to replace synthetic emulsifiers and binders. The process involves recirculating fresh water, thereby reducing carbon emissions. 

“Plantible’s vertically integrated and traceable supply chain aligns with our commitment to ingredient transparency and Food with Integrity standards,” said Curt Garner, Chief Customer and Technology Officer at Chipotle. 

CH4 Global uses Asparagopsis seaweed to eliminate livestock methane. It makes a product called “Methane Tamer” that reduces methane emissions from cattle by up to 90%. With the help of Chipotle, CH4 Global can fast-track production of Method Tamer to a scale that meets global demand. There are a reported 1.5 billion cattle in the world. 

“As we all work toward the goal of minimizing global greenhouse gas emissions, it’s vital for us to invest in companies like CH4 Global that are engineering scalable solutions to reduce harmful global emissions,” said Christian Gammill, Cultivate Next Fund Manager.