Palmetto Superfoods Unveils the Blade Smoothie Packed With 18g of Alfalfa Protein

A new protein-packed smoothie made from alfalfa leaves has arrived at Palmetto Superfoods. The Blade Smoothie, priced at $13.95, contains 18g of Rubisco protein—an ingredient gaining rapid popularity for its health and sustainability benefits. Demand for this plant-based protein has already jumped by over 300% since its launch in early 2025.

The Blade Smoothie uses Leaft Foods' Rubisco protein, extracted from alfalfa leaves. Each serving delivers 522mg of essential amino acids per gram, along with bioavailable iron, vitamins B2, B7, B12, and K1. The protein also supports digestion, immunity, circulation, and skin and hair health.

Palmetto Superfoods is the first US foodservice chain to feature the product on its menu. Californians can now purchase a smoothie made from the equivalent of 50,000 alfalfa leaves at any Palmetto location.

The protein's rise comes as Americans increasingly focus on protein intake. New dietary guidelines for 2025 recommend 1.2–1.6g of protein per day, up from 0.8g, to boost energy, strength, and weight management. Nearly three in five people plan to prioritise protein this year. The trend is also driven by the growing use of weight-loss medications, which can lead to muscle loss.

Leaft Foods' Rubisco protein matches the quality of animal-based proteins like beef and egg whites, with a PDCAAS score close to dairy. Yet it produces 97% fewer greenhouse gases than whey. The company has now begun large-scale production and secured partnerships with Lacto Japan and New Zealand's Foodstuffs cooperative. It also supplies the bakery, snack bar, and plant-based dairy sectors, expanding its reach beyond smoothies.

The Blade Smoothie's launch has accelerated global interest in Rubisco protein. Leaft Foods is scaling up production to meet demand from both consumers and food manufacturers. With its high nutritional value and low environmental impact, the protein is set to play a larger role in plant-based diets.