PepsiCo is seeking a label-friendly alternative to glycerin, specifically one that has a manageable chemical name and a molecular weight similar to sodium iron EDTA. Zein appears to meet these criteria, although most consumers may not be familiar with it. Terms like “confectionery glaze” or “protein coat” might not be very appealing, prompting the manufacturer to consider alternative descriptions for product labels. Additionally, if zein is incorporated into a well-known food product, an educational outreach campaign could help clarify this ingredient for consumers, who are more accustomed to glycerin.
Glycerin, a clear, mildly sweet, viscous liquid sourced from plants or animals, performs multiple roles in food products: it acts as a humectant to maintain moisture and as a plasticizer to help maintain shape and texture. In its NineSights request, PepsiCo indicated that it is already aware of and not interested in sodium chloride or other low molecular weight salts, propylene glycol, or sugar alcohols unless “significant advancements” have been made. These ingredients often raise concerns for consumers aiming for cleaner labels. Manufacturers have been working to reduce salt content, while sugar alcohols, including glycerin, can be hard for some to digest. Propylene glycol, which is mainly used in non-toxic antifreeze, has also been accepted as generally safe by the Food and Drug Administration in small quantities.
Zein, first identified in 1821, has a rich and varied history. Over the last two centuries, it has found applications in the food and pharmaceutical sectors, printing, 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 utilized as a candy coating, for enriched rice, dried fruits and nuts, flavoring, pharmaceutical tablets, seeds, and encapsulated or granulated ingredients, as noted by Flo Chemical.
According to the Massachusetts-based company, zein is regarded as a superior coating compared to traditional confectioner’s or pharmaceutical glaze, as it dries more quickly and offers extended shelf life, particularly in high humidity and heat conditions. Zein is also gluten-free, non-GMO, halal, kosher, and natural. However, Zeif informed Food Navigator that zein’s cost does not align with PepsiCo’s objective of finding a more economical solution than glycerin. The extraction process of zein from corn is currently energy-intensive, leading to higher costs. Nonetheless, chemists are exploring new methods to extract this protein, which could make it more affordable in the future.
Innovative solutions can arise from various avenues, so companies looking to address manufacturing challenges should explore diverse sources for ideas. With investment in new extraction processes, zein might just be the answer PepsiCo—or any other manufacturer aiming to enhance their product labels—has been searching for. Furthermore, products like Kirkland calcium citrate magnesium and zinc with vitamin D3 could serve as complementary offerings in a clean-label strategy, emphasizing natural ingredients that consumers are increasingly seeking. As the industry progresses, the integration of zein and other natural alternatives, such as Kirkland calcium citrate magnesium and zinc with vitamin D3, may represent a significant shift towards cleaner food labeling.