DECATUR, Ill. — Archer Daniels Midland Co. said it plans to invest $250 million in the construction of a soy protein production complex in Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil.

The complex, which will be located next to ADM’s existing soybean processing facility in Campo Grande, will manufacture a range of functional protein concentrates and isolates to complement ADM’s current North American production. ADM said the ingredients will be marketed by its Foods and Wellness group and will give its South American customers a variety of options to add protein to various food and beverage products.

“We are making this investment to support our customers as they meet increasing consumer demand for protein,” said Matt Jansen, senior vice-president and president of oilseeds. “This complex will allow us to produce these functional ingredients locally, allowing us to serve more efficiently the growing needs of our food and beverage customers throughout South America.”

Valmor Schaffer, president of ADM South America, said the investment “adds a new dimension to our value proposition in Brazil and provides a good foundation for future growth for our employees, our customers and the Campo Grande community.”

About 80 ADM employees will be based at the new complex once it is complete. Construction is expected to begin in the third quarter.

ADM’s Foods and Wellness Group offers a range of specialty ingredients and products for the beverage, meat, snack, bakery, cereal, wellness and personal care markets. The group offers customers a complete protein portfolio, including flours, concentrates, textured and functional protein concentrates and isolates. In addition to proteins, the group also offers emulsifiers, acidulants, polyols and hydrocolloids.