Enabling Better-Tasting Protein Products

Valio

The Finnish dairy giant Valio has unveiled its latest offering in the form of a milk protein concentrate (MPC) named Valio Eila MPC 65. Drawing on its extensive expertise in lactose-free milk protein development, Valio aims to assist manufacturers in producing high-protein products that not only meet but exceed the burgeoning global market demands for health-conscious options.

Valio Eila MPC 65 marks a pioneering leap in protein evolution, aligning with Valio's track record of protein-enhancing products. Positioned as a lactose-free solution for enhanced digestive comfort, this new concentrate promises to elevate the quality of protein-rich creations, ranging from puddings and shakes to ice creams and beverages.

In the fiercely competitive landscape of protein-enriched foods, Valio addresses a common challenge—the potential compromise in flavour and texture. With Valio Eila MPC 65, the company seeks to eliminate the prevalent issues associated with high-protein powders, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.

Sinikka Saikkonen, Business Development Manager at Valio, emphasised Valio's consumer-centric approach.

"Consumers leading an active lifestyle want excellent nutritional value without compromising taste," said Saikkonen.

The result is a product that combines the benefits of natural whey and casein proteins, delivering superior amino acids without the typical taste and texture drawbacks of high-protein powders.

Jarna Tanskanen, Business Manager at Valio, said the versatility of Valio Eila MPC 65 enables the creation of a diverse range of lactose-free, high-protein products that mirror the freshness of milk and the traditional texture of snacks and treats. The product is hailed as a game-changer in the realm of protein-enriched offerings.

Valio conducted a rigorous test in Germany with 110 participants to validate consumer acceptance. The results showcased the superiority of Valio's high-protein UHT ready-to-drink (RTD) prototype compared to four leading competitors. Factors such as texture, flavour, and appearance garnered high scores, with nearly 70 percent of consumers attesting to Valio's RTD prototype's ideal flavour and sweetness.

Flavour emerged as the paramount purchase criterion, accompanied by preferences for a concise ingredient list, high protein content, and the absence of added sugar. Valio Eila® MPC 65 aligns seamlessly with these consumer demands, offering a convenient solution for manufacturers aiming to create protein-enriched products.

The production advantages of Valio's powdered milk ingredients, particularly Valio Eila MPC 65, mean manufacturers can streamline their production processes by substituting liquid milk with powdered milk products, avoiding additional steps typically associated with higher protein and lower lactose contents.

Valio's innovative approach with Valio Eila MPC 65 caters to evolving consumer preferences for tasty and healthy protein products. It also provides manufacturers a versatile and efficient solution to meet market demands.