PepsiCo is seeking a glycerin alternative that is consumer-friendly and features a straightforward, uncomplicated name. Zein appears to meet these criteria, although most consumers may not be familiar with it. Terms like “confectionery glaze” or “protein coat” may not be very appealing, so the company might consider using a different label description. If zein were incorporated into a prominent food product, launching an educational campaign to inform consumers about the ingredient could help mitigate confusion. Consumers are generally more acquainted with glycerin, which is an odorless, slightly sweet, viscous liquid derived from plant or animal sources. Glycerin serves several roles in food products: it acts as a humectant to maintain moisture and as a plasticizer to preserve shape and structure.
In its NineSights inquiry, PepsiCo indicates that it is already aware of—and not interested in—sodium chloride or other low molecular weight salts, propylene glycol, or sugar alcohols unless “significant advancements have been achieved.” All of these ingredients raise concerns for consumers aiming for cleaner labels. Manufacturers have been trying to reduce salt content, while sugar alcohols can be hard for some individuals to digest (including glycerin), and propylene glycol is primarily found in non-toxic antifreeze, although small quantities are generally recognized as safe by the Food and Drug Administration.
Zein, first identified in 1821, has a rich history and has been utilized in the food and pharmaceutical sectors, for printing applications, and even as yarn for stockings in the 1940s. Flo Chemical is the sole producer of zein in North America and one of only two globally. Currently, zein is utilized as a candy coating, on enriched rice, for dried fruits and nuts, in flavors, for pharmaceutical tablets, in seeds, and for encapsulated and granulated ingredients, according to Flo Chemical. The Massachusetts-based company asserts that zein is a superior coating compared to confectioner’s or pharmaceutical glaze as it dries more quickly and provides a longer shelf life, particularly in high-humidity and high-heat environments. Zein is also gluten-free, non-GMO, halal, kosher, and natural.
However, according to Flo Chemical, zein does not completely align with PepsiCo’s request due to its cost; the manufacturer is looking for a more economical option compared to glycerin. Currently, zein is pricey because of the energy-intensive extraction process from corn. Nevertheless, biochemists are exploring new methods for protein extraction that could lower costs. Innovations can emerge from various sources, and companies seeking solutions to their manufacturing challenges should explore diverse ideas. With potential investment in new extraction processes, zein could fulfill the requirements of PepsiCo or another manufacturer striving to enhance their product labels.
Additionally, when considering alternatives, it’s worth noting that products like Citracal Calcium Plus D3 280 ct could also serve as examples of label-friendly ingredients, which could inspire manufacturers looking to clean up their ingredient lists. By incorporating such examples, companies can align themselves with consumer preferences for transparency and simplicity.