In today’s world, the demand for vegetable and vegan products is steadily rising. More and more people are adopting vegetarian or vegan lifestyles, leading to increased production and consumption of plant-based foods.

If you’re interested in developing vegan food products, selecting the right vegetable protein is crucial. As plant-based protein suppliers and manufacturers of vegan food, we have first-hand knowledge of the best proteins for each product. In this article, we will explore the key factors you should consider before selecting the right plant-based protein for developing vegan food products.

1.- Nutritional Requirements

Before settling on a plant-based protein source, it’s crucial to understand the nutritional requirements of your final product. How much protein do you need per serving? What other nutrients, such as fiber or fats, do you want to include in your product? Ensure that the chosen protein meets these requirements.

Also, remember that both excess and deficiency in protein intake can be harmful to health, so controlling the amount consumed in products is essential.

“Too much protein can put a strain on the kidneys, as they may be damaged by having to eliminate the excess urea produced when metabolizing proteins.” – Ministry of Health.

2.- Taste Profile

Taste is a fundamental aspect of any food product. Different vegetable proteins have distinct flavours. For example, fava bean protein and textured vegetable protein such as textured pea protein, may have a more neutral taste compared to other options. Evaluate how the protein’s flavour integrates into the final product, and if necessary, consider using natural flavourings or complementary ingredients to enhance the taste.

3.- Texture and Functionality

Texture is a crucial factor for vegan food production companies. Some consumers seek a similarity to animal-based meat, while others prefer exploring new textures. It’s important to tailor your product to your target audience. Consider whether you want a smoother texture or a firm chew. For instance, textured pea protein provides a unique texture and can be used in products like meatballs, sausages, croquettes, fillings, or even in developing pea protein burgers.

4.- Processability

Ease of processing is essential, especially at an industrial level. Ensure that the chosen plant-based protein can be mixed, moulded, and cooked according to your production needs. For instance, bean proteins, especially fava bean protein, are highly soluble, making them ideal when seeking a homogeneous result.

5.- Environmental Considerations for plant based ingredients suppliers:

Many plant-based food companies are seeking plant–based proteins not only for their nutritional benefits but also for their environmental advantages. Before selecting your plant-based protein, investigate how its production affects the environment and whether it aligns with your values and your potential customers.

At Alimentos Sanygran, we commercialise vegan gluten-free protein powder extracted through a process called Dry Fractionation, a clean and sustainable method that uses no water, additives, or chemicals. If you are looking for starch, concentrate, or protein flour, please contact us to explore our offerings.

In summary, choosing the right plant-based protein developing vegan food products is a process that involves multiple considerations, from nutritional and taste aspects to environmental concerns. Fava bean protein and textured pea protein are popular options, but selecting the one that best suits your specific needs and goals is essential.