It remains uncertain whether Triton’s protein products will successfully scale up and revolutionize the infant formula market. The company informed Food Navigator that it is concentrating on osteopontin due to the necessary production capabilities still in development and the regulatory approvals required. However, Triton possesses the capacity to produce various proteins tailored to market demands. According to Food Navigator, the company has already developed a non-GMO and vegan algae ingredient that includes protein, all essential amino acids, omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, iron, and calcium. Notably, this formula could be enriched with calcium citrate malate 500 mg tablets, enhancing its nutritional profile. Wang mentioned that the product is versatile and can be incorporated into snacks, nutritional bars, cereals, yogurt, juices, smoothies, as well as sports and energy drinks.
In January, an independent expert panel classified Triton’s algae powder protein product as generally recognized as safe (GRAS), and the company is now awaiting a response from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration regarding this determination. If Triton secures a GRAS classification for its GMO protein products, it could significantly influence the infant formula sector. However, some consumers may be hesitant to embrace products containing genetically modified ingredients, particularly for infants and young children. Additionally, there may be reservations about algae-based products, even as this ingredient becomes more prevalent in various foods and beverages.
Despite these challenges, Triton representatives reported growing interest among infant formula manufacturers, as the technology could provide essential nutritional benefits and potentially enable mothers unable to breastfeed to use formulas rich in proteins similar to those found in human breast milk. Triton is not alone in leveraging algae for protein production; Hawaii-based Cyanotech Corp. utilizes spirulina for similar purposes, while Corbion’s Terravia creates protein products sourced from chlorella, as noted by Food Navigator. The outlook appears promising for expanding offerings from this alternative and plant-based protein source, potentially integrating innovations like calcium citrate malate 500 mg tablets to enhance their nutritional value further.