PROTEIN-ENRICHED FOODS

Challenges of the food industry

The protein fortification has become a key trend for those looking to improve their health and physical performance. Whether it's to support muscle development, improve post-exercise recovery or simply maintain a balanced diet, protein-rich products are critical to wellness. Their presence in the food and beverage world has extended beyond sports nutrition.
 

Due to the essential role that protein plays in food, manufacturers are increasingly choosing to incorporate protein-rich ingredients in their products. This not only improves the nutritional profile of foods, but also allows them to stand out on labels, increasing positive perception and acceptance among consumers.

Increasing protein consumption in all sectors

In recent years, protein-enriched foods have ceased to be exclusively for athletes and have expanded to a wide range of products ranging from snacks and pastries to pasta, cookies and, especially, dairy products. 

In the dairy sector, there has been a significant increase in the development of products such as protein-enriched yogurts, quarks and puddings. This category has grown by 20% in recent years, driven by consumer demand for protein sources that are easy to consume and offer additional benefits, such as low fat or sugar content. These products have also improved their visibility on the shelf, with the introduction of new formulations and flavors that appeal to both regular and new consumers.

This increase in consumption of protein dairy products is reflected in the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of the refrigerated dairy category, which has registered a 15% increase in some key markets.

"Consumers are looking for foods that not only provide a rich source of protein, but also offer appealing textures and flavors."

*Source: Alimarket, 2024

Proteins for every generation: different reasons, same essential nutrient

Each group has its own reasons for incorporating more protein into their diet. Understanding these differences allows us to offer customized solutions for each consumer segment. 

Generation Z and Millennials

"For them, protein consumption is linked to overall well-being, physical appearance and increased energy and stamina." 

These younger consumers tend to focus on protein as an ally for physical performance and skin health. Many are looking for plant-based proteins that also provide environmental benefits. 

Generation X

 "Cardiovascular health and weight maintenance become key reasons to increase your protein intake."

As this generation ages, they prioritize proteins that help them maintain muscle mass and prevent age-related muscle loss (sarcopenia).

Boomers

"Their protein intake focuses on bone and muscle health, as well as chronic disease prevention."

For this generation, protein is essential as they strive forhealthy-aging. 

*Source: Innova Market Insights

Ready to create an innovative and healthy product?

If you are looking to combine taste and nutrition with a high protein content, contact us, together we will make the difference!

Trades protein solutions

At Trades we have a portfolio of protein solutions that can be easily integrated into the daily diet, either through supplements, functional foods or protein-rich snacks.

Glanbia Nutritionals offers highly effective, health-promoting, science-based ingredients backed by market trends: from muscle building to weight management, cardiovascular health, plant-based solutions and much more.

 

Depending on the application, Glanbia Nutritionals has a complete portfolio of solutions:

Solutions for sancks: 

  • -BarHarvest™:Pea protein isolate (>80% protein), which maintains moisture and a smooth texture, gluten-free and of European origin.
  • -BarPro® 586 and BarPro® 291Milk protein isolates and concentrates (>82-90% protein) preserve soft texture and prevent hardening.
  • -Crunchie™ Milk Protein Crisps & Bites: Crisps made with 75% milk protein, ideal for adding crunchy texture to snacks and cereals.

Beverage solutions:

  • -Optisol®: Whey protein concentrates (>76%), UHT stable, ideal for various pH applications.
  • -ProTherma™: Hydrolyzed whey protein for hot beverages and food applications.
  • -BevWise® A-100 W: Whey protein isolate (>80%) for clear and acidified beverages.
  • -Provon ISO Hi®: Whey protein isolate (89%) to optimize breakdown into peptides.
  • -CreaBev™ A: Soluble monohydrate creatine, ideal for ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages.

Plantaris™ specializes in innovative pea and bean protein solutions designed to overcome common challenges in formulating plant-based products, such as undesirable flavors sometimes found in plant proteins.

 Plantaris™ offers flavor neutrality, allowing for greater versatility in its use in beverages and foods.

One of the highlights is its high solubility and stability, which makes it an excellent choice for applications such as protein shakes and ready-to-drink beverages, reaching 25 grams of protein per serving and 2 grams of leucine.

  • Plantaris Pea Isolate 85A: has a protein content of over 85%. It stands out for its neutral flavor and high solubility, which makes it an ideal choice for beverages and products that require a clean flavor profile, avoiding the off-notes common in vegetable proteins.
  • Plantaris Faba Bean Isolate 90A: With a protein content of 90%, this bean protein isolate also seeks to improve texture and taste in food applications. It is especially useful in products that require a high protein value, such as bars and shakes, offering a nutritious alternative without compromising taste.

Tirlán offers a wide range of high quality dairy and protein ingredients, with a focus on sustainable production and known especially for its functional and nutritional proteins, such as milk and whey protein isolates and concentrates, ideal for applications such as bars, shakes, sports nutrition supplements, yogurts and dairy.

From its range, we highlight:

  • Promiko™ WPI is a whey protein isolate purified by CFM (cross-flow microfiltration), without denaturing. It combines its high solubility, neutral taste and unique functionality to add protein in different applications.
  • Solmiko® HD MPC 80 and Solmiko® HD MPI 85 are a spraydried milk protein concentrate and isolate. Source of native casein, easily dispersible and soluble, rich in calcium.

Need help?

If you have any questions or cannot find the ingredient you are looking for, please fill out the form below and we will contact you as soon as possible.

After 50 years working in the food industry, at Trades, we use our experience to help our customers develop innovative products, meeting the needs of an increasingly health-conscious consumer.