NCC’s Lisa Kelly, Food Technologist, Sales Support, takes a closer look at plant-based proteins and why Tendra Fava Bean Protein Isolate from Cosun is a top choice for food production.
In recent years, the popularity of plant-based diets and the demand for plant-based protein has soared. With concerns about sustainability, animal welfare, and health driving consumer choices, plant-based protein has emerged as a viable alternative to traditional animal-based protein sources. Among the various plant-based proteins available, including soy, pea, hemp, and fava bean, fava bean protein stands out as a superior option for food production.
Let’s take a closer look at these plant-based proteins and why Tendra Fava Bean Protein Isolate from Cosun is a top choice for food production.
Soy Protein: A Common but Controversial Choice
Soy protein has been a popular choice for plant-based protein for many years, and it is widely used in various food products such as plant-based meat alternatives, dairy alternatives, and protein supplements. Soy protein is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids required by the human body. It is also a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fibre.
However, soy production has come under scrutiny due to concerns over deforestation, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and potential allergenicity. Moreover, some studies have raised concerns about the potential hormonal effects of soy due to its isoflavone content, although more research is needed in this area. Also something to take into account, is depending of the final product soy is not always the best tasting protein.
Pea Protein: A Nutritious Alternative
Pea protein is another popular plant-based protein that is often used in plant-based meat alternatives, protein bars, and shakes. Pea protein is rich in essential amino acids, particularly lysine, which is often limited in other plant-based protein sources. It is also hypoallergenic and easily digestible, making it suitable for those with food sensitivities or digestive issues. The taste of pea protein can be an issue however for some products as it can have a somewhat earthy profile.
Hemp Protein: A Nutrient-Rich Option
Hemp protein is derived from hemp seeds and is a complete protein, containing all essential amino acids. It is also a good source of healthy fats, fibre, and minerals such as magnesium, iron, and zinc. Hemp protein is known for its nutty, earthy flavour which can be an issue for food products in which there is no masking flavouring to hide its aftertaste. It is often used in protein powders, bars, and snacks.
Fava Bean Protein: The Rising Star
Fava bean protein is a lesser-known plant-based protein, but it is gaining recognition for its impressive nutritional profile and sustainability credentials. Fava beans, also known as broad beans, are legumes that have been cultivated for thousands of years and are native to the Mediterranean region. Fava bean protein is a complete protein, containing all essential amino acids, and is also high in fibre, vitamins, and minerals. One of the key advantages of fava bean protein is its sustainability. Fava beans are known for their ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, which reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers and promotes soil health. They also require less water and have a smaller carbon footprint compared to other protein crops like soy and pea.
That said not all fava bean proteins are the same, Consun’s Tendra® Fava Protein Isolate is unique. Utilising cutting-edge proprietary extraction technology and a speclisied purification process results in a flavor and aroma-neutral plant protein that exceeds industry standards for taste, purity and solubility.
Cosun: The Best Source of Fava Bean Protein for Food Production
Tendra® Fava Protein Isolate is particularly suited for dairy and dairy alternative products such as yoghurt, ice cream and flavoured milks.
Regardless, if you are seeking to create a new dairy product or enhance a vegan protein shake, Tendra® Fava Protein Isolate is an excellent protein ingredient. Below we list the key benefits, characteristics, and applications.
| Properties | • Homogeneous, off-white powder • Free from objectionable flavours/odours |
| Unique functional benefits | • Mild and neutral taste • in solubility (low viscosity at high inclusion levels) • Highly stable in solution • Excellent emulsification properties |
| Product characteristics | High protein content (>85%) • Good nutritional value • Plant-based • Clean label • Non-GMO • Sustainable crop • Locally grown (Netherlands) |
| Applications | Highly suitable as a functional protein ingredient in products like dairy alternatives, functional drinks, vegan ice cream, cheese and dressings. |
Want to know more?
If you are looking to increase or change the type of protein used in a current food product or develop a new product that contains high level of protein, then we can assist. Here at NCC we have the experience and expertise when it comes to reformulation as well as developing new products. Whatever your food production challenge is we have a solution that will rise to the occasion.
NCC Food ingredients are an award-winning sourcing provider of functional and innovative ingredients. Our customer base ranges from international producers of foods and beverages to small niche artisan creators of fine foods.
For further information on Tendra® Fava Protein Isolate please read the product data sheet here or fill out the form below and we will be in touch.
