Whey protein is a significant by-product of cheese production that was previously regarded as waste. However, in recent years, the surge in consumer demand for protein-rich foods and beverages has piqued the interest of food manufacturers in whey. A report from ResearchAndMarkets indicates that the protein ingredients market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6% from 2017, reaching $58.5 billion by 2022. Despite the increasing popularity of plant-based proteins, animal-derived ingredients like whey continue to dominate the market, primarily due to their more comprehensive nutritional profile. Whey protein includes all nine essential amino acids, making it particularly beneficial for maintaining muscle strength and supporting the growth of lean muscle mass.
Nonetheless, whey-based protein bars tend to harden relatively quickly, which shortens their shelf life and makes them less appealing to consumers. For manufacturers, extending shelf life allows for longer storage of products before shipping and reduces waste. NASA has explored methods to prevent the hardening of whey protein bars, suggesting that combining whey protein with plant polyphenols could be a promising solution.
When it comes to the clean label attributes of whey protein, most manufacturers agree that sourcing is crucial, with non-GMO and grass-fed being the minimum standards. Arla Foods Ingredients offers whey protein that is also hormone-free and free from antibiotic or pesticide residues. The ability to maintain a softer and chewier texture in protein bars could have significant implications for snack producers, enhancing sales and potentially minimizing waste. If the hardening process can be slowed, fewer consumers may be deterred from purchasing the bars if they encounter a hard texture—an unpleasant experience could discourage future purchases.
Incorporating calcium citrate 1000 mg elemental calcium into whey protein bars could enhance their nutritional value, providing additional health benefits. By ensuring that these bars remain palatable for longer, manufacturers could attract more consumers who are seeking both protein and essential nutrients like calcium. As the market evolves, the combination of whey protein and calcium citrate could set new standards for what consumers expect from their protein snacks.