FrieslandCampina Ingredients has debuted its novel heat-stable whey protein solution, Nutri Whey ProHeat, to the active nutrition niche of the nutraceutical market.
This follows the company's 2025 trend forecast, which listed protein as one of the top interests likely to captivate conusmers this year.
The health-boosting whey protein ingredient is suitable for RTD functional beverages, and has been microparticulated to prevent whey protein viscosity when exposed to heat.
Whey protein is currently considered to be the gold standard in the protein niche, as it's fast digesting and rich in essential amino acids.
Through its rich nutritional profile, whey protein can support muscular protein synthesis, while also promoting effective muscular recovery, strength and endurance — which is particularly beneficial for both athletes and active consumers.
Although whey protein is often favoured as an accessible and beneficial protein source, it's often difficult to incorporate into RTD beverages, as it is highly sensitive to heat treatment.
When exposed to high heats necessary for the pasteurisation of shelf-stable RTD beverages, most whey proteins become irreversible denatured — often resulting in their polymerisation and aggregation.
Formulating RTDs with whey protein
To address these challenges, FrieslandCampina Ingredients' Nutri Whey ProHeat ingredient harnesses FrieslandCampina's patent-pending microparticulation process, which uses thermal treatment to form stable whey protein aggregates under high heat conditions.
Through this process, manufacturers can benefit from products with pleasant sensory profiles, including a low viscosity, neutral pH and pleasant taste; allowing them to produce premium beverages for active consumers.
“Ready to drink beverages and yoghurt drinks containing high amounts of protein are a fast-growing market, but formulation challenges have often held brands back from unlocking their full potential," noted FrieslandCampina's Global Marketing Director of Performance, Active and Medical Nutrition, Vicky Davies.
“Nutri Whey ProHeat is a proven solution that we've already successfully launched within the medical nutrition market. By utilising our ingredinet, brands can deliver hgih doses of whey protein in trending formats with little to no impact on viscosity."
"This innovation could not only enhance the quality of whey-based RTD beverages, but also other popular and convenient formats such as bars."
In the past, protein supplements were mostly associated with athletes and gym goers, but now they have hit the mainstream market, with many consumers looking to prioritise their protein intake.
According to FrieslandCampina Ingredients, this shift is likely driven by an increased focus on weight management and satiety, as well as the enhanced interest in healthy, low-sugar beverages.
Nutri Whey ProHeat can be applied to a variety of applications, including RTDs, bars, yoghurts and other convenient formats.