Celebrating a Legacy of Low Protein Innovation: The Story of Stephen and Linda Fletcher

For more than 30 years, Stephen and Linda Fletcher have dedicated their lives to improving the quality of life for people living with PKU and other inherited metabolic disorders.

Since founding Firstplay Dietary Foods in 1993, their vision and compassion have shaped the world of low protein nutrition. Through the Promin brand, they have developed over 70 innovative low protein foods — from fresh breads and pastas to quick-cook meals and snacks — all created to make dietary management easier, tastier, and more enjoyable.

But their story goes far beyond product innovation. It’s about care, collaboration, and community. From the early days of producing pasta for the Taranis brand in France to launching Promin Fresh Bread — which allowed a young child to finally enjoy a school sandwich like their friends — the Fletchers have always placed patients and families at the heart of everything they do.

Their dedication has been celebrated by healthcare professionals, families, and friends across the metabolic community. Professor Anita MacDonald OBE described them as “visionaries who have never stopped innovating or caring.”

As Firstplay Dietary Foods enters its fourth decade, Stephen and Linda’s legacy continues to shine brightly — driving forward with new ideas, new recipes, and the same unwavering commitment to helping people live well with PKU.

Read the full feature in NSPKU News & Views, Issue 179 (Autumn 2025) to explore the remarkable journey of Promin and the Fletcher family.