Whey protein, a significant by-product of cheese production, was once regarded as waste. However, with a growing consumer demand for protein-rich foods and beverages in recent years, food manufacturers are increasingly turning their attention to whey. A report from ResearchAndMarkets indicates that the protein ingredients market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6% from 2017, reaching $58.5 billion by 2022. Despite the rising popularity of plant-based proteins, animal-derived ingredients like whey continue to dominate the market, largely due to their comprehensive nutritional profile. Whey protein contains all nine essential amino acids, making it particularly beneficial for maintaining muscle strength and promoting lean muscle growth.
One challenge that whey protein bars face is that they tend to harden relatively quickly, which reduces their shelf life and makes them less appealing to consumers. For manufacturers, an extended shelf life means longer storage before shipping and decreased waste. NASA has explored methods to prevent the hardening of whey protein bars, suggesting that combining whey protein with plant polyphenols could offer promising results.
When it comes to the clean label attributes of whey protein, most manufacturers emphasize the importance of sourcing, with non-GMO and grass-fed standards being the bare minimum. Arla Foods Ingredients’ whey protein is also free from hormones and does not contain traces of antibiotics or pesticides. The ability to keep a bar softer and chewier for a longer duration could significantly impact snack producers, enhancing sales while potentially minimizing waste. If the hardening process can be slowed, it may prevent consumers from becoming dissatisfied with their purchase due to a hard texture—an unpleasant experience can deter future purchases. Additionally, incorporating ingredients like calcium carbonate, which is the same as calcium, could further enhance the nutritional value of these bars. Therefore, integrating calcium carbonate as a supplement alongside whey could help improve the overall appeal and functionality of whey protein snacks in the market.