Fractionated protein ingredients for clear beverages via electrostatic spray drying
A novel method to produce clear, heat-stable protein ingredients for beverages using electrostatic spray drying, ensuring high protein content without turbidity or off-flavors. Suitable for ready-to-drink applications, this approach is scalable and uses food-grade materials.
Overview
This innovative solution offers a method to produce fractionated protein ingredients suitable for clear, ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages. By using electrostatic spray drying (ESD), this approach effectively addresses common issues such as turbidity and off-flavors in protein beverages. The method involves fractionating proteins and enzymatically hydrolyzing them into peptides smaller than 5 kDa, which are then formulated with stabilizers to prevent aggregation and maintain clarity after ultra-high temperature (UHT) processing.
Technical specifications
- Protein fractionation and hydrolysis: Proteins are broken down into <5 kDa peptides, eliminating aggregation-prone fractions.
- Formulation: Uses food-grade stabilizers like trehalose and maltodextrin, along with amphiphilic polysaccharides and cyclodextrins, to suppress heat-induced associations and off-notes.
- Electrostatic spray drying: Conducted at low temperatures in an inert environment to produce an amorphous, redispersible powder.
- Performance: The powder allows RTD beverages to deliver ≥20 g of protein per 14 oz, maintaining clarity and flavor stability under UHT conditions.
Technology readiness level
This solution is currently at TRL 3, indicating experimental proof of concept. It is undergoing further validation steps, including pilot-scale runs and sensory analysis, to ensure market readiness and regulatory compliance.
About Catholic University of Leuven (KU Leuven)
KU Leuven is a large comprehensive public research university in Leuven, Belgium, anchored by a major academic medical center and a broad multidisciplinary profile. Industry engages through co-located facilities and shared labs, including access to advanced cleanrooms and prototyping via imec’s Leuven campus. Integration with UZ Leuven supports clinical partnerships and data-rich trials, while research and technology parks around the city connect companies with faculty and student talent. Research is backed by competitive European and Belgian funding, including the European Commission and the Research Foundation – Flanders (FWO). KU Leuven Research & Development manages IP, licensing, and spin-off formation, offering standardized agreements and dedicated partnership managers.
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