USA – Glanbia Nutritionals has launched new XtraPro Seasonings, which it says will help manufacturers meet the growing demand for snacks that are high in protein content.
The product is available in various flavors including BBQ, ranch and cheddar, as well as more adventurous options such as garam masala and coconut curry.
It can be used in chips, popcorn, pretzels and other snacks with the ability to boost the protein content by 3g to 7g, according to the company.
Consumer tastes and preferences are shifting to healthier snacking choices and according to Mintel, 49% of consumers believe healthy snacking could be a good source of protein.
“Consumers are very clear: When it comes to healthy eating, they want protein. Whether it is to boost energy, manage weight and muscle, or enhance mental clarity, protein is now front and centre in consumers’ dietary desires.
That’s led to an explosion of health-oriented meal products, but the demand for more health-conscious snack items continues to soar,” said Glanbia Nutritionals in a statement.
“With Glanbia Nutritionals’ new high-protein savoury XtraPro Seasonings, manufacturers can add protein and flavour to their products and capture a larger share of this vibrant and growing market.”
Glanbia said with the new high-protein savoury XtraPro Seasonings, manufacturers can add protein and flavour to their products and capture a larger share of this vibrant and growing market.
It offers consumers a more convenient way of snacking while delivering the required nutritional benefits.
“We see that protein is a very important ingredient because the association of health with protein is known by mainstream consumers,” said Glanbia Nutritionals marketing manager Dagmar Ortlepp to FoodBev.
“What is interesting is that the protein is not now coming from bars which have been adapted from sports nutrition to the mainstream market, but people are looking to add protein to mainstream products like confectionery, muesli and cereal bars.”
Last year, the company agreed to acquire health and wellness brand SlimFast for US$350 million.
Recently, it acquired Watson Inc., a US based supplier of nutrient premixes and ingredients to strengthen its capabilities in micro-encapsulation, agglomeration, micronizing, spray drying and edible film technologies.
