North Carolina Schools Embrace Joyn Foods' Eco-Friendly Blended Meat

Joyn Foods has secured approval to supply its 50Cut blended meat products to schools across North Carolina. The decision follows a successful bid with the North Carolina Purchasing Alliance (NCPA), a process known for its strict standards. The company's innovative meat-mushroom blend aims to cut environmental impact while keeping the taste and texture of traditional beef.

The 50Cut range combines beef with mycelium and roasted mushrooms, using a 30-50% plant-based inclusion. The mycelium is grown on organic substrates in a closed-loop system, reducing waste. Despite the blend, the product cooks and handles like 100% beef, meaning schools won't need new equipment or chef training.

In student tastings at K-12 schools, the blended meat was preferred over conventional beef. Nutritionally, it offers complete protein, iron, calcium, and fibre—benefits not always found in standard beef. The environmental savings are equally striking: production uses over 95% less land and 99% less water than traditional beef farming.

The NCPA approval marks a key step for Joyn Foods, allowing all school districts in the state to purchase the product. This follows a rigorous review, as the alliance sets high standards for food suppliers in education settings.

With the NCPA contract now in place, Joyn Foods' blended meat will soon appear in North Carolina school meals. The product delivers lower emissions, better nutrition, and familiar taste—without changing how kitchens operate. Schools can now adopt it as a direct replacement for traditional beef.