What are protein powders made of
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Composition of Protein Powders: An Overview
Milk Protein Concentrate Powders
Casein and Whey Proteins in Milk Protein Concentrates
Milk protein concentrate (MPC) powders are primarily composed of casein and whey proteins. The solubility of these powders can vary significantly, ranging from 32% to 98% depending on storage conditions and temperature. The insoluble material in MPC powders mainly consists of α- and β-caseins, which are held together by non-covalent hydrophobic interactions. Additionally, disulfide-linked aggregates of κ-casein and β-lactoglobulin are present but do not significantly contribute to the insolubility.
Spray-Dried Protein Powders
Albumin and Stabilizers in Aerosolized Powders
Spray-dried protein powders often include albumin and stabilizers such as lactose, trehalose, or mannitol. These powders are designed to have specific aerodynamic properties, making them suitable for inhalation therapies. The surface composition of these powders is enriched with dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC), which self-organizes in a gel phase, enhancing protein stability.
Whey Protein and Lactose Emulsions
Whey protein powders are frequently combined with lactose and oils like soybean oil to create emulsions. These powders are characterized by their ability to encapsulate fats, although the efficiency varies. The presence of lactose can influence the structural integrity of the powder, especially under humid conditions, leading to fat release and particle agglomeration .
Plant-Based Protein Powders
Variety and Functional Properties
Plant-based protein powders are derived from various sources such as pea, oat, fava bean, chickpea, mung bean, potato, canola, soy, and wheat. These powders exhibit diverse functional properties, including water and oil holding capacities, foaming, and emulsification abilities. For instance, soy isolate has a high water-holding capacity, while canola excels in oil-holding capacity. The sensory properties of these powders, such as flavor and texture, also vary significantly.
Animal-Derived Protein Powders
Production from Animal By-Products
Animal-derived protein powders can be produced from various raw materials, including offal from bacon factories and cattle slaughterhouses. These powders are created through heat treatment and mechanical separation, resulting in products with high protein content and specific functional properties, such as gluing capabilities.
Fish Protein Powders
Fish protein powders, such as those derived from Alaska pollock, are rich in essential amino acids and minerals. These powders have high nitrogen solubility and emulsion stability, making them suitable for various food applications. The protein content in these powders can range from 65% to 78.9%, depending on the source material.
Specialized Protein Powders
Sweet Potato Protein Powders
Sweet potato protein powders are evaluated based on their composition, including crude protein, fiber, fat, moisture, ash, and total sugar content. Among different varieties, the "55-2" type has the highest protein purity at 86.89%, along with favorable color and low metal content.
Catfish Roe Protein Powders
Catfish roe protein powders are notable for their high protein content (67%) and essential amino acids. These powders also exhibit good nitrogen solubility, emulsion stability, and fat adsorption properties, making them suitable for use in emulsion systems like mayonnaise.
Conclusion
Protein powders are diverse in their composition and functional properties, depending on their source and processing methods. From milk and plant-based proteins to animal and fish-derived powders, each type offers unique benefits and applications. Understanding these differences is crucial for selecting the right protein powder for specific dietary and industrial needs.
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