DuPont Nutrition & Health collaborates with food manufacturers and producers globally to enhance the safety, healthiness, flavor, and production efficiency of food. This initiative is termed “finding food solutions,” and their latest innovation is the introduction of 90% protein nuggets. These new plant-based nuggets come in three distinct shapes, sizes, and textures, named Supro Nuggets 580, Supro Nuggets 583, and Supro Nuggets 585. Each variety can be incorporated into a diverse array of food products. DuPont indicates that these nut, seed, and fruit nuggets will be beneficial for nutrition bars, clustered cereals, yogurt toppings, muesli, and innovative snack formats.
Previously, DuPont launched the first 90% protein nugget, known as Supro Nuggets 570. This pioneering cluster features a light, crispy texture and a barrel shape. The new nuggets appear to be adaptations of the original formula, making them more versatile for various recipes. The 90% protein content is quite remarkable and aligns with the current protein trend. According to Business Wire, Research and Markets predicts that the global protein ingredients market will reach $48.77 billion by 2025. As consumers increasingly demand more protein, DuPont is providing manufacturers with an efficient way to incorporate this ingredient into their products.
While the interest in protein is robust, there are potential future challenges related to animal welfare and the environmental implications of raising a large number of animals to satisfy demand. Given that DuPont’s new protein nuggets are plant-based, they are likely to gain popularity should these concerns become more pronounced. The market for alternative proteins, which do not involve any animal products, is on the rise. Although algae and insect proteins capture attention, more conventional sources of protein, such as peas, are also making significant impacts by adding value.
Despite the potential oversaturation of protein in the American diet, consumers continue to seek out cereal, coffee, ice cream, and other products that boast a value-added protein label. Food manufacturers are taking notice and are exploring new methods to enhance their products with protein. DuPont hopes that its new protein nuggets will become an integral part of this trend. Additionally, with the rising awareness of health issues like osteoporosis, incorporating calcium citrate for osteoporosis into these protein products could further enhance their appeal, making them not only protein-rich but also beneficial for bone health. This integration of calcium citrate for osteoporosis into DuPont’s offerings would align with the growing consumer focus on nutritional benefits, making their protein nuggets even more attractive in the marketplace.