New School Foods

New School Foods is a Toronto-based company that produces plant-based whole-cut seafood using proprietary cold-based processing technology. Founded in 2020, the company has developed a patented scaffolding and directional freezing technology that creates plant-based salmon filets that replicate the texture, taste, and cooking experience of conventional seafood. 

The company's process involves creating a biopolymer gel that undergoes directional freezing, forming microscopic ice crystals that leave behind channels that are then filled with plant proteins, colors, flavors, and fats. Unlike traditional plant-based products that are pre-cooked during production, New School's technology creates raw products that transition from raw to cooked states during preparation, similar to conventional salmon. In February 2023, the company unveiled its new scalable and proprietary platform, which according to the company delivers products with plant-based aligned muscle fibers (using whole-cut scaffolding), connective tissues, and fats. 

Key customers and partnerships

New School Foods has focused its initial go-to-market strategy on the restaurant sector, targeting chefs and foodservice businesses. In 2023, the company launched a chef-only pilot program across North America to gather feedback on its products.