November 15, 2007

ADM introduces soy as dairy protein substitute

ADM has launched a new line of soy proteins as an alternative for expensive dairy ingredients or to extend milk supply, in the light of high prices that caused production to escalate this year.

Dairy prices have soared this year due to high animal feed costs. According to the University of Wisconsin's dairy marketing programme, the average price of wet condensed skim milk in Northwest USA was US$2.15 per pound in October 2007 - more than double the price one year earlier.

The increase has affected dairy product prices as well as ingredients used in production and supply.

ADM offers new products such as Pro Fam Soy and Arcon soy concentrates in helping companies reducing production costs. Pro Fam soy isolates and Arcon soy concentrates can work out at around 20 per cent cheaper than skim milk powder and caseinates in the current climate.

The ingredients are said to have the same emulsifying functionality as dairy proteins for yoghurt-type products, frozen desserts, biscuits, cakes and imitation mozzarella cheese.

They work by binding water and the emulsifying fat in such as way as to have no impact on the end product, in appearance or other technical parameters, says ADM.

A spokesperson for the company explained that Pro Fam isolates contain a minimum of 90 percent protein on a dry basis, and are suitable for use in sensitive applications like yoghurts and ice cream.

On the other hand, Arcon concentrates contain 70 percent protein, and some of the dietary fibre is retained in the processing. These are particularly suitable for use in baked goods, where any change in mouthfeel brought about by the fibre would not be discernible.

The development of innovative ingredients to be used in place of expensive commodities is a big challenge for ingredient suppliers.