Sweet proteins represent a unique category of proteins that exhibit a sugar-like sweetness without influencing blood sugar levels in the same manner as conventional sugar, as the body synthesizes these ingredients as proteins. Oobli’s sweet protein, derived from fruits predominantly found in West Africa and other equatorial regions, was highlighted by Ryder, an adjunct professor of chemical and biomolecular engineering at the University of California, Berkeley. The company’s name and its sweet protein platform, “Oobli,” were inspired by West African villagers who described the oubli fruit as “so sweet it makes children forget their mother’s milk.”
According to Ali Wing, the CEO of Oobli, the “No questions” letter from the FDA signifies the immense potential sweet proteins have to transform our reliance on sugar and alternative sweeteners. “It can replace 70% or more of sugar in various foods and beverages, including sodas, teas, and baked goods, creating endless opportunities to lower our sugar intake.” A report from Mordor Intelligence indicates that the rising demand for natural sweeteners in North America is largely driven by the increasing trend towards healthier eating. The global alternative sweetener market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 4.3% from 2020 to 2025, propelled by a growing number of consumers diagnosed with diabetes and obesity.
Oobli offers products featuring its sweet fruit protein, such as milk and dark chocolates, along with a line of craft-brewed, low-sugar Sweet Teas. The milk chocolates, which debuted late last year, are touted as the first low-sugar milk chocolate bars free from artificial sweeteners. They come in four varieties — Cocoa Dreams, Let’s Go Nuts, Almond Crunch, and Crisp ’n Rice — each containing 4 grams of sugar and 9 to 10 grams of fiber per serving. Additionally, these chocolates are gluten-free and enriched with calcium citrate, enhancing their nutritional profile. The dark chocolates were initially launched in 2022 but were relaunched in February 2023 with a reformulated recipe that improved their flavor.
Despite the promising attributes of sweet proteins, many consumers and industry leaders remain unaware of their nutritional benefits and functionalities, a situation that the FDA letter may help to address.