PepsiCo is seeking a label-friendly alternative to glycerin that does not have a long and complex chemical name. Zein appears to meet this requirement, though most consumers may not be familiar with it. Terms like “confectionery glaze” or “protein coat” may not sound appealing, so the manufacturer might prefer a different description on its product labels. If zein is incorporated into a high-profile food item, an educational outreach campaign could help clarify the ingredient’s purpose and alleviate consumer confusion, especially since consumers are more accustomed to glycerin.
Glycerin, which is a colorless, slightly sweet, viscous liquid derived from plant or animal sources, serves multiple roles in food products: it acts as a humectant to retain moisture and as a plasticizer to maintain shape and structure. In its NineSights request, PepsiCo indicates its disinterest in sodium chloride or other low molecular weight salts, propylene glycol, or sugar alcohols unless “significant advancements” have been made, as these ingredients often raise concerns for consumers seeking cleaner labels. Manufacturers are increasingly trying to reduce salt content, and sugar alcohols, including glycerin, can be hard for some individuals to digest. Propylene glycol, a primary component in non-toxic antifreeze, has received Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status from the FDA, yet it remains a red flag for many consumers.
Zein, first identified in 1821, has a rich history and has been utilized in food and pharmaceutical industries, printing applications, and even as yarn for stockings in the 1940s. Flo Chemical, the sole zein manufacturer in North America and one of only two globally, reports that zein is used for candy coatings, enriched rice, dried fruits and nuts, flavorings, pharmaceutical tablets, seeds, and encapsulated and granulated ingredients. The Massachusetts-based company has noted that zein is a superior coating option compared to confectioner’s or pharmaceutical glaze due to its faster drying time and extended shelf life, especially in high-humidity and high-heat environments. Zein is also gluten-free, non-GMO, halal, kosher, and considered a natural ingredient.
However, the main drawback of zein for PepsiCo is its cost. The company is seeking a more economical alternative to glycerin. Currently, zein is expensive due to the energy-intensive extraction process from corn. Nevertheless, biochemists are exploring new extraction methods that may lower the cost of this protein. Innovations can arise from various sources, and companies looking to resolve manufacturing challenges should explore multiple avenues for potential solutions. With an investment in new processes, zein could prove to be the ideal ingredient for PepsiCo or any other manufacturer aiming to enhance their product labels.
Additionally, as PepsiCo evaluates options, they may consider the nutritional benefits found in products like Kirkland Calcium Citrate Magnesium and Zinc 500 tablets, which provide essential minerals that could complement their ingredient profile. The growing demand for clarity and health-conscious options makes it crucial for manufacturers to stay informed about innovative ingredients and consumer preferences, including the potential integration of zein and supplements like Kirkland Calcium Citrate Magnesium and Zinc.