Key Takeaways
- Facility, called the Ranchito, will produce Rubi Protein™ from lemna at commercial scale
- Expansion includes upgraded filtration systems and a higher-yield plant strain
- Project expected to cut nearly 8,000 metric tons of CO₂-equivalent emissions annually
- Partnerships, including with ICL, aim to integrate Rubi Protein into consumer products
- Company investing in local jobs, workforce training, and community engagement
Plantible’s Commercial Production Begins at the Ranchito
Plantible, a biology company focused on developing sustainable food ingredients, has opened its first commercial facility in Eldorado, Texas. Known as the Ranchito, the site represents a major step in the company’s efforts to use lemna, or water lentils, to produce Rubi Protein™, a neutral-tasting, allergen-free, complete protein designed to replace synthetic and animal-derived ingredients in food manufacturing.
Built in Schleicher County, the facility includes multiple greenhouses, upgraded protein filtration systems, and a newly introduced, higher-yield lemna strain. Lemna grows in harsh environments, requires 10 times less water than soy, and does not need arable land, making it a sustainable protein feedstock.
Increased Capacity and Industry Partnerships
The Ranchito is projected to produce thousands of metric tons of biomass each year, resulting in hundreds of metric tons of Rubi Protein. This production could contribute to annual reductions of nearly 8,000 metric tons of CO₂-equivalent emissions by replacing animal-based proteins and synthetic binders.
Upgrades to the facility’s filtration systems have reduced production costs and increased throughput, supporting Plantible’s goal of achieving cash flow positivity. The company is working with customers, including ICL, to integrate Rubi Protein into a range of food products, citing its functional benefits in emulsifying, gelling, and binding.
Economic and Community Impact in Eldorado
Since selecting Eldorado in 2022, Plantible has added more than 30 skilled local positions and contributed to a reported 60% rise in median income in the area. The company has also partnered with educational institutions such as Angelo State University to develop local workforce training programs, internships, and career pathways in sustainable manufacturing, agriculture, and biotechnology.
“This marks a defining moment for Plantible, our partners, and the community of Eldorado,” said Tony Martens, Co-Founder and CEO of Plantible. “We’re scaling a food system rooted in science, sustainability, and shared prosperity—proving that it’s possible to build resilient food solutions while creating real economic opportunity in rural America.”
Plantible Looking Ahead to Further Expansion
Plantible has developed a proprietary lemna strain that increases Rubi yield per acre and is testing additional varieties to further improve efficiency and scalability. Plans are underway to expand the Ranchito to a larger “Rancho” scale, which would triple capacity.
The facility’s opening was marked by a ribbon cutting attended by community members, partners, and agricultural research representatives. With production now underway, Plantible plans to continue investing in Eldorado, expanding its footprint, and working toward a more sustainable global food system.
