PepsiCo is in search of a glycerin alternative that is more consumer-friendly in terms of labeling and has a simpler chemical name. Zein appears to meet these criteria, although many consumers may not be familiar with it. Terms like “confectionery glaze” or “protein coat” may not sound particularly appealing, prompting the manufacturer to consider alternative descriptions for their product labels. To further alleviate consumer confusion, especially if zein is featured in a prominent food product, an educational outreach campaign could be beneficial.
Consumers are generally more acquainted with glycerin, an odorless and slightly sweet viscous liquid derived from plant or animal sources. Glycerin serves multiple roles in food products: it acts as a humectant to maintain moisture and as a plasticizer to help retain shape and structure. In its NineSights request, PepsiCo has indicated that it is aware of, and not interested in, alternatives such as sodium chloride, low molecular weight salts, propylene glycol, or sugar alcohols unless there has been “significant advancement.” Such ingredients often raise concerns for consumers seeking cleaner labels; for instance, many manufacturers aim to reduce salt content, sugar alcohols can be hard to digest (and include glycerin), and propylene glycol is notably found in non-toxic antifreeze—though small amounts have been deemed generally recognized as safe by the Food and Drug Administration.
Zein, first identified in 1821, has a rich history and has been utilized across the food and pharmaceutical industries, as well as in printing applications and even as yarn for stockings in the 1940s. Flo Chemical is the sole producer of zein in North America, making it one of only two manufacturers worldwide. Currently, zein is employed as a coating for candies, enriched rice, dried fruits and nuts, flavors, pharmaceutical tablets, seeds, and encapsulated or granulated ingredients, according to Flo Chemical. The Massachusetts-based company has highlighted that zein is a superior coating compared to confectioner’s or pharmaceutical glaze due to its quicker drying time and enhanced shelf life, especially in humid or high-heat conditions. Additionally, zein is gluten-free, non-GMO, halal, kosher, and natural.
However, the primary drawback of zein, as noted by Flo Chemical, is its cost—PepsiCo seeks a more economical option compared to glycerin. The current high expense of zein is attributed to the energy-intensive extraction process from corn. Nevertheless, biochemists are exploring innovative methods to extract this protein, potentially making zein more affordable.
Incorporating ingredients like calcium citrate and vitamin D3 into formulations could broaden the appeal of products containing zein. Innovations can arise from various sources, so companies looking to address their manufacturing challenges would be wise to explore different avenues for ideas. With potential investments in new extraction processes, zein could be the solution that PepsiCo—or any manufacturer aiming to create cleaner labels—is searching for.