Potato protein isolates have been on the European food ingredient market since 2008, and have been introduced to the U.S. market since 2009. With potato protein isolate’s introduction as a generally-recognized as safe food ingredient by Dutch company Solanic in March of this year for gluten-free ingredient for baked goods, and an alternative to animal proteins in both finished foods and beverages, many food manufacturers have jumped on this natural ingredient’s bandwagon.
Extracted by a specialized technology, the protein composition of the isolate is said to contain anywhere between 90-95% amino acid concentrations, along with high solubility, and bioavailability. This amino acid content exceeds the protein content of soybean protein isolates and the overall recommended daily nutrition allowances, which have successful applications for sports nutrition.
Since the introduction of the protein isolate trend, some companies have created branded version of the protein that contains the active ingredient, protease inhibitor PI-2, which is a protein naturally derived from potatoes. Such branded ingredients include: Slendesta® (Kemin Health) and Solathin® (Cyvex Nutrition) introduced in the weight loss market in [years]
Protease inhibitor PI-2 enables the release of PI-2 enables the release of cholecystokinin (CKK), a digestive hormone released as food leaves the stomach and enters the small intestine. It has been clinically shown to promote feelings of gastric fullness and satiety.
Charles Weller
Author