Protient expands whey protein capacity

The firm’s Juda, Wisconsin facility, which previously manufactured lactose and when protein concentrate, is expected to begin full-scale production of WPI on September 1 2008.

“The expansion of our whey protein isolate production capabilities into the Juda, Wisconsin plant will help us meet the expanding needs of our customers. We continue to focus on utilizing our existing facilities to make value-added products and are committed to being a preferred supplier of dairy protein to the food industry”​ said Jeff Saforek, vice president of sales and marketing in a statement.

Whey protein​

Whey, which is the liquid remaining after cheese has been curdled and strained, was traditionally thought of as a byproduct of the manufacturing of cheese and casein.

The use of whey protein in food products began in the early 1990s, and for the first seven or eight years it was used mainly for sports nutrition. Over time, however, it began to spill over into the more mainstream food and functional food market.

Whey protein is a source of essential amino acids that the body needs to replenish through food. As an isolate, it contains little to no fat, lactose or cholesterol.

The functional potential for whey protein includes promoting satiety in weight management products, as well as for sports nutrition, infant nutrition or immunity products.

Protient's bland flavored whey protein isolate is used primarily in low carbohydrate products, nutrition bars, and powdered beverages. The firm also said it is well suited for acidified ready to drink beverages, bakery goods and meat analogs.

The company is particularly targeting its whey protein isolates, as well as its milk protein isolates, for use in applications positioned for satiety.

WPI comes in regular spray dried and agglomerated powders.

Protient - ABF​

In 2005, Protient was acquired by ABF Ingredients, a division of Associated British Foods. The move was expected to increase the US company’s sales on a global basis through ABF’s sales channels across Europe.

As well as its headquarters in Minnesota, Protient has manufacturing facilities in Missouri, Nebraska and Wisconsin.