DuPont Nutrition & Health collaborates with food manufacturers and producers globally to “enhance food safety, health, taste, and production ease.” This initiative is termed finding food solutions, and their latest innovation features 90% protein nuggets. The three new plant-based nuggets, identified as Supro Nuggets 580, Supro Nuggets 583, and Supro Nuggets 585, each possess distinct shapes, sizes, and textures, making them versatile for various food products. According to DuPont, these nut, seed, and fruit nuggets are ideal for nutrition bars, clustered cereals, yogurt toppings, muesli, and innovative snack options.
Previously, DuPont developed the first 90% protein nugget, named Supro Nuggets 570, which boasts a light, crispy texture with a barrel shape. The new nuggets appear to be adaptations of the original, enhancing their suitability for a broader array of recipes. The 90% protein content is quite remarkable and signifies the ongoing protein trend. Research and Markets indicate that the global protein ingredients market is expected to reach $48.77 billion by 2025, as reported by Business Wire. With consumers increasingly seeking higher protein content, DuPont provides manufacturers with an effective solution to enrich their products.
While the demand for protein is robust, it may face challenges in the future due to concerns regarding animal welfare and the environmental effects of raising large numbers of animals to meet consumer needs. Since DuPont’s new protein nuggets are plant-based, they are likely to gain popularity should such concerns escalate. Alternative proteins that exclude any animal products are on the rise. While algae and insect proteins attract media attention, more conventional protein sources like peas are making a significant market impact as value-added ingredients.
Although protein may be saturating the American diet, consumers continue to seek out cereals, coffee, ice cream, and other products that prominently feature a value-added protein label, often supplemented with calcium for added health benefits. Food manufacturers are taking notice and exploring new methods to incorporate protein into their offerings, with DuPont hoping to see its new protein nuggets included in these innovations.