Due to the essential role that protein plays in food, manufacturers are increasingly choosing to incorporate protein-rich ingredients in their products. This not only improves the nutritional profile of foods, but also allows them to stand out on labels, increasing positive perception and acceptance among consumers.
In recent years, protein-enriched foods have ceased to be exclusively for athletes and have expanded to a wide range of products ranging from snacks and pastries to pasta, cookies and, especially, dairy products.Â
In the dairy sector, there has been a significant increase in the development of products such as protein-enriched yogurts, quarks and puddings. This category has grown by 20% in recent years, driven by consumer demand for protein sources that are easy to consume and offer additional benefits, such as low fat or sugar content. These products have also improved their visibility on the shelf, with the introduction of new formulations and flavors that appeal to both regular and new consumers.
This increase in consumption of protein dairy products is reflected in the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of the refrigerated dairy category, which has registered a 15% increase in some key markets.
"Consumers are looking for foods that not only provide a rich source of protein, but also offer appealing textures and flavors."
*Source: Alimarket, 2024
Each group has its own reasons for incorporating more protein into their diet. Understanding these differences allows us to offer customized solutions for each consumer segment.Â
"For them, protein consumption is linked to overall well-being, physical appearance and increased energy and stamina."Â
These younger consumers tend to focus on protein as an ally for physical performance and skin health. Many are looking for plant-based proteins that also provide environmental benefits.Â
 "Cardiovascular health and weight maintenance become key reasons to increase your protein intake."
As this generation ages, they prioritize proteins that help them maintain muscle mass and prevent age-related muscle loss (sarcopenia).
"Their protein intake focuses on bone and muscle health, as well as chronic disease prevention."
For this generation, protein is essential as they strive forhealthy-aging.Â
*Source: Innova Market Insights
Ready to create an innovative and healthy product?
At Trades we have a portfolio of protein solutions that can be easily integrated into the daily diet, either through supplements, functional foods or protein-rich snacks.
Glanbia Nutritionals offers highly effective, health-promoting, science-based ingredients backed by market trends: from muscle building to weight management, cardiovascular health, plant-based solutions and much more.
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Depending on the application, Glanbia Nutritionals has a complete portfolio of solutions:
Solutions for sancks:Â
Beverage solutions:
Plantaris™ specializes in innovative pea and bean protein solutions designed to overcome common challenges in formulating plant-based products, such as undesirable flavors sometimes found in plant proteins.
 Plantaris™ offers flavor neutrality, allowing for greater versatility in its use in beverages and foods.
One of the highlights is its high solubility and stability, which makes it an excellent choice for applications such as protein shakes and ready-to-drink beverages, reaching 25 grams of protein per serving and 2 grams of leucine.
Tirlán offers a wide range of high quality dairy and protein ingredients, with a focus on sustainable production and known especially for its functional and nutritional proteins, such as milk and whey protein isolates and concentrates, ideal for applications such as bars, shakes, sports nutrition supplements, yogurts and dairy.
From its range, we highlight:
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After 50 years working in the food industry, at Trades, we use our experience to help our customers develop innovative products, meeting the needs of an increasingly health-conscious consumer.
