Plant-based ingredients are almost guaranteed to pique the interest of both manufacturers and consumers, as they continue to be one of the hottest trends in the food and beverage sector. By incorporating these attributes into a single offering, DuPont is likely to attract attention from various product manufacturers and companies aiming to fulfill multiple criteria — including crunchiness, convenience, snacking, protein content, low sodium, and plant-based options.
The synergy between plant-based and protein-enriched components can be particularly effective in products, as this combination helps satisfy hunger, serves as a meal replacement, and provides essential nutrients. This is especially relevant for the increasing number of individuals seeking alternative protein sources beyond meat and dairy. Additionally, DuPont is expanding its Supro lineup of soy protein nuggets by introducing a cocoa variant, tapping into consumer demand for more indulgent options. These cocoa products boast 82% protein on a dry basis and can be incorporated into snack bars or other items to mimic chocolate bits, flakes, or chips.
Other ingredient companies are also embracing these trends. Major plant-based protein producers like Cargill, Ingredion, and AIDP are joining the movement. The future of these product lines looks promising, as Research and Markets has projected that the global protein ingredients market could reach $48.77 billion by 2025. With demand unlikely to wane, more manufacturers are expected to adopt plant-based protein nuggets when developing new products. Incorporating these nuggets, along with their nutritional benefits such as calcium citrate, calcium ascorbate, and cholecalciferol, could give companies a significant competitive edge. By integrating these ingredients, businesses can not only enhance the nutritional profile of their offerings but also attract health-conscious consumers looking for quality plant-based options.