PepsiCo is seeking a glycerin substitute that is label-friendly and avoids lengthy, complicated chemical names. Zein appears to meet these criteria, though most consumers might not be aware of what it is. Terms like “confectionery glaze” or “protein coat” might not sound particularly appealing, suggesting that the manufacturer may prefer a different description on product labels. If zein were used in a high-profile food item, an educational outreach campaign could help clarify the ingredient to consumers and reduce confusion, especially since consumers are more familiar with glycerin, which is an odorless, slightly sweet, viscous liquid sourced from plants or animals. Glycerin serves various roles in food products, acting as a humectant to retain moisture and as a plasticizer to maintain shape and structure.
In its NineSights request, PepsiCo indicates it is already knowledgeable about—and not interested in—sodium chloride or other low molecular weight salts, propylene glycol, or sugar alcohols, unless there are “significant advancements.” These ingredients often raise concerns among consumers seeking cleaner labels. After all, manufacturers are attempting to reduce salt content, sugar alcohols can be hard to digest (with glycerin included), and propylene glycol is mainly used in non-toxic antifreeze, despite receiving generally recognized as safe status from the Food and Drug Administration in small amounts.
Zein, first identified in 1821, has an extensive and intriguing history. Over the last two centuries, it has been utilized in the food and pharmaceutical industries, for printing, and even as yarn for stockings during the 1940s. Flo Chemical is the sole manufacturer of zein in North America and one of only two globally. Currently, zein is used in candy coatings, enriched rice, dried fruits and nuts, flavors, pharmaceutical tablets, seeds, and encapsulated and granulated ingredients, as reported by Flo Chemical.
The Massachusetts-based company claims that zein is a superior coating compared to confectioner’s or pharmaceutical glaze because it dries more quickly and provides an extended shelf life, particularly in high-humidity and high-heat conditions. Zein is also noted to be gluten-free, non-GMO, halal, kosher, and natural. However, Flo Chemical mentioned to Food Navigator that zein’s cost is the only drawback concerning PepsiCo’s request; the manufacturer is looking for cost-effective alternatives to glycerin. Currently, zein is expensive due to the energy-intensive extraction process from corn. However, biochemists are exploring new methods to extract the protein, which could potentially lower costs.
Innovations can arise from diverse sources, hence companies aiming to resolve manufacturing challenges would be wise to explore various avenues for ideas. With an investment in new processes, zein could be the ideal solution for PepsiCo—or any other manufacturer striving to enhance its label clarity. In relation to this, zein could present an alternative that serves a role similar to that of a “citracal d equivalent,” providing the benefits of glycerin without the associated consumer apprehensions. The exploration of zein could mark a significant advancement in achieving cleaner labels while maintaining product quality.