Egg-cellent! Glanbia wins IFT Innovation Award for whey-based egg replacement

Glanbia Nutritionals has won an Innovation Award for its Optisol 3000 egg substitute – a replacement made from whey protein and milled flax.

The Irish-based nutritionals and cheese group was honored on July 14 at the annual Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) food expo.

Optisol 3000 is an egg replacement ingredient system, which uses a combination of whey protein concentrate and milled flax to replace eggs without, the company claims, compromising the flavour and texture of baked goods.

We’re excited that OptiSol 3000 won an IFT Innovation Award this year,” said Loren Ward, director of research and development for Glanbia Nutritionals.

Optisol 3000 is a novel egg replacement solution that addresses a key market need.

“Food manufacturers will find that it's cost effective, price stable, and it helps maintain the sensory profile of products. It also meets consumer desires for high quality protein, flax fiber and omega-3s.”

Glanbia was one of four companies to be awarded out of 60 entries. The selection was made by a panel of nine judges from industry, academia, and government.

A panel of nine IFT judges at with expertise in research and development, processing and packaging, and food safety awarded four companies out of 60 entries. Winning criteria included innovation, technical advancement, benefits to food manufacturers and consumers, and scientific merit.