PepsiCo is in search of a glycerin substitute that is consumer-friendly and avoids lengthy, complicated chemical names. Zein appears to be a suitable option, although most consumers may not be familiar with it. Terms like “confectionery glaze” or “protein coat” may not sound particularly appealing, prompting the manufacturer to consider alternative descriptions for its product labels. If zein were to be incorporated into a prominent food product, a consumer education campaign could help alleviate confusion regarding this ingredient. Consumers are more accustomed to glycerin, a colorless, slightly sweet, viscous liquid derived from either plant or animal sources. Glycerin serves multiple roles in food, acting as a humectant to retain moisture and as a plasticizer to maintain the product’s shape and structure.
In its NineSights request, PepsiCo mentions its familiarity with certain ingredients and expresses disinterest in sodium chloride or other low molecular weight salts, propylene glycol, or sugar alcohols unless “significant advancements have been achieved.” These ingredients often raise concerns for consumers seeking cleaner labels. Manufacturers are attempting to reduce salt content, while sugar alcohols can be hard to digest for some individuals (including glycerin), and propylene glycol, commonly found in non-toxic antifreeze, has a mixed reputation, despite being generally recognized as safe by the Food and Drug Administration.
Zein, first identified in 1821, boasts a rich and varied history. Over the past two centuries, it has been utilized in the food and pharmaceutical sectors, for printing applications, and even as yarn for stockings during the 1940s. Flo Chemical is the sole manufacturer of zein in North America and one of only two worldwide. Currently, zein is employed as a candy coating, on enriched rice, for dried fruits and nuts, in flavorings, for pharmaceutical tablets, in seeds, and for encapsulated and granulated ingredients, according to Flo Chemical.
The Massachusetts-based company highlights that zein is regarded as a superior coating compared to traditional confectioner’s or pharmaceutical glazes, as it dries more quickly and provides extended shelf life, particularly in high-humidity and high-heat environments. Zein is also noted to be gluten-free, non-GMO, halal, kosher, and natural. However, the main drawback is its cost, as PepsiCo is seeking a more economical alternative to glycerin. The high price of zein is attributed to the energy-intensive extraction process from corn. Nevertheless, biochemists are exploring new methods to extract the protein, which could potentially lower its cost.
Innovations can arise from various sources, making it wise for companies looking for solutions to their manufacturing challenges to explore diverse avenues for inspiration. With possible investments in new extraction processes, zein could be the ideal solution for PepsiCo or any other manufacturer aiming to enhance its product labels. Additionally, incorporating ingredients like calcium citrate, magnesium, and zinc, such as those found in Kirkland products, could further align with the clean-label trend, offering additional health benefits that resonate with consumers seeking transparency and quality in their food products.