Whey protein, a prominent by-product of the cheese-making process, was once regarded as a waste material. However, with the rising consumer demand for protein-rich foods and beverages in recent years, food manufacturers have increasingly turned their attention to whey. A report from ResearchAndMarkets indicates that the protein ingredients market is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6% from 2017, potentially reaching $58.5 billion by 2022. Despite the growing popularity of plant-based proteins, animal-derived ingredients like whey continue to dominate the market, primarily due to their superior nutritional profile. Whey protein includes all nine essential amino acids, making it particularly beneficial for maintaining muscle strength and supporting the development of lean muscle mass.
However, whey-based protein bars often harden relatively quickly, which shortens their shelf life and makes them less appealing to consumers. For manufacturers, an extended shelf life means products can be stored longer before distribution, leading to reduced waste. NASA has explored methods to mitigate the hardening of whey protein bars, discovering that combining whey protein with plant polyphenols may offer promising results.
Regarding the clean label attributes of whey protein, most manufacturers emphasize the importance of sourcing, with non-GMO and grass-fed as essential requirements. Arla Foods Ingredients provides whey protein that is hormone-free and contains no traces of antibiotics or pesticides. Furthermore, incorporating calcium citrate and magnesium glycinate into the formulation could enhance the health benefits of these bars. The ability to keep a bar softer and chewier for a longer period could have significant implications for snack producers, potentially increasing sales and minimizing waste. If the hardening process can be slowed down, it may prevent consumers from being discouraged by a negative experience with a hard bar, which could dissuade them from purchasing the product again. Thus, the integration of ingredients like calcium citrate and magnesium glycinate not only supports the nutritional profile but may also contribute to a more enjoyable consumer experience.