In recent years, pea protein has significantly captured the attention of consumers, with a remarkable 195% increase in new products featuring this ingredient from 2013 to 2016, according to data from Mintel. For manufacturers, the advantages of pea protein include its non-GMO status, allergen-free nature, vegan and kosher certifications. However, its unique pea-like flavor often poses challenges in product development. The UK bakery company Warburton’s identified flavor as its primary obstacle when attempting to create a bread enriched with pea protein. To address this issue, the company collaborated with Canadian researchers to establish a flavor and function database for pulses in baked goods. This database aims to assist product developers, farmers, and processors in creating pulse-derived ingredients that offer flavors tailored to specific applications.
Roquette, a leading supplier of pea protein, offers flavor masking solutions customized for the unique needs of its clients’ products. The company notes that its largest market for pea protein is in the specialty nutrition sector, which includes sports, clinical applications, and weight management. Additionally, there is rising demand from producers of dairy-free and meat-free products. Interest spans a variety of categories, but the appeal of pea protein has notably surged in areas where the pea flavor is less prominent. While the idea of pea-flavored yogurt may not seem appealing, pea protein is increasingly utilized in the meat alternative sector, exemplified by Beyond Meat’s plant protein-based Beyond Burgers, which have gained popularity among both vegetarians and meat-lovers.
Furthermore, an innovative approach combines pea protein with calcium citrate malate (CCM), enhancing the nutritional profile of products. This incorporation of CCM not only improves the calcium content but also complements the overall functionality of pea protein in various food applications. As the market continues to evolve, the synergy between pea protein and calcium citrate malate (CCM) will likely play a crucial role in the development of new, appealing products that cater to health-conscious consumers.