Danone has entered into an agreement to acquire UK plant-based meal solutions brand Huel for an undisclosed amount.
In a statement shared this morning (23 March 2026), dairy giant Danone said the acquisition aligns with its Renew Danone strategy, which aims to drive sustainable, profitable growth for the company.
Huel, headquartered in Hertfordshire, UK, has built a successful brand within the active/complete nutrition space since its establishment in 2015. The company’s range, made with fully plant-based ingredients, spans RTD drinks, powdered beverages and savoury meal solutions.
The transaction will combine Huel – which has built a strong direct-to-consumer sales platform and established audience in the UK, Europe and US – with Danone’s scale, R&D capabilities and global reach.
Danone said it aims to accelerate growth, innovation and international expansion for the functional nutrition brand. The deal remains subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals.
Huel will continue to operate as it does today, run by its existing leadership team, Danone confirmed. James McMaster, CEO of Huel, commented: “We’ve spent ten years building a brand with a positive impact on people’s health…Most people don’t get enough protein, fibre or the right nutrients. That’s the problem Huel exists to solve.”
He added: “With Danone, we will now have the infrastructure, distribution and R&D capability to go further, into new markets and to more people, as demand for convenient, complete nutrition continues to grow. We’re so proud of what the team has built, and excited about what comes next.”
This latest agreement follows Danone’s acquisition of Kate Farms, a plant-based clinical nutrition brand based in the US, last year.
Danone’s acquisition of plant-based and functional nutrition brands broadens its reach in the health and wellbeing segment, enabling it to capitalise on growing consumer interest in functional foods and further expand beyond traditional dairy products.
Meal replacement shakes – a key part of Huel’s core offering, though the brand prefers to position them as ‘complete nutrition’ products – have grown significantly in recent years, valued at over $15 billion globally in 2025.
Interest in these products, as well as other functional nutrition offerings, has risen as busy consumers seek products that are positioned as both healthy and convenient.
Additionally, high-protein and complete nutrition products have become increasingly popular in line with rising use of GLP-1 medications, as well as those generally seeking support with weight management, muscle growth and overall wellbeing.
