Alternative proteins have emerged as a multifaceted solution to the environmental, ethical, and social stigma associated with traditional animal-based sources. Despite their burgeoning relevance, many of these substitutes struggle to achieve the sought-after trifecta of flavor, price, and functional properties.
NURA addresses these pain points by providing solutions that effectively balance nutritional standards, taste, innovation, and affordability. Its portfolio includes various products, such as vegan proteins, various collagens, herbal extracts, natural sweeteners, natural flavors, and pre, pro, and post-biotics.
Innovative Offering, YESTEIN® Yeast Protein
It’s innovative offering, YESTEIN® Yeast Protein, possesses dominant functional properties and nutritional equivalence to dairy-based protein, emerging as a game-changer in formulating delicious yet cost-effective vegan products. It is also highly compatible with various plant and other vegan proteins, making it a sought-after ingredient in the alternative protein market.
Yeast Protein is as effective as whey protein in improving lean mass and strength, especially in those with low dietary protein. Even after exercise, Yeast Protein prevents muscle loss and promotes recovery thanks to the high branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) content Rich in complete essential amino acids like lysine, isoleucine, leucine, and valine, makes Yeast Protein is an excellent complementary protein in blends, by increasing the digestion, absorption rate, and satiety, all while providing a continuous and steady supply of amino acids.
Above all, it is a vegan-friendly, nutritious, yeast-sourced protein with an 80 percent protein content, complete amino acid profile, 21 percent BCAAs, and PDCAAS of 1.0. It also contains B vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber.
“Our groundbreaking YESTEIN® Yeast Protein offers essential functional properties for use across a diverse array of protein products, including ready-to-mix and ready-to-drink beverages, snacks, bakery and bars, non-dairy treats, supplements, and pet foods,” says Melissa Riddell, director of R&D.
According to data from two large U.S. cohort studies, the average adult consumes approximately 18 percent of energy from protein, mostly from animal sources and only 20–25 percent from plant sources. After adjusting for dietary fiber, dietary fats, body mass index, and other potential confounders, the research found that higher consumption of animal protein tends to be associated with an increased risk of health conditions. In contrast, higher consumption of vegetable protein tends to be associated with lower risk.
Recognizing these trends, NURA provides a variety of protein options, including pea protein, mung bean, fava bean, rice protein, vegan collagen, and textured proteins, to support the creation of vegan products with the desired flavor and texture profiles consumers are looking for. Sustainability is a key element of the company’s ethos, leading them to offer upcycled certified and non-GMO project-verified ingredients. This commitment to sustainability resonates with NURA’s strategic partners and emerging consumer trends.
Opening A New R&D Center
Beyond product offerings, NURA distinguishes itself through its comprehensive range of services. With a state-of-the-art innovation lab in Irvine, California, the company supports the development of formulations tailored to client-specific needs. Consolidating this with ingredient sourcing under one roof enables NURA to accelerate product development, allowing clients to confidently and efficiently bring innovative products to market.
Highlighting NURA’s role as a solutions provider, Riddell’s goal of linking R&D formulation services and technical support to a globally sourced ingredient distributor, benefits customers by providing expert knowledge and high-quality ingredients, streamlining development timelines, enhancing product performance, and ensuring a competitive market edge.
A prominent wellness supplement provider recently featured YESTEIN® as the primary protein source in a vegan ready-to-drink mix. This demonstrates its high nutritional value, low viscosity at high concentration (30 grams per serving), and delicious taste. Other ventures include bars, snacks, and tortilla chips, highlighting the company’s dedication to catering to diverse dietary preferences and meeting consumer needs across multiple product categories.
Riddell emphasized NURA’s prowess in innovation, fueled by strong partnerships in the protein and sweetener categories. These partnerships facilitate access to new ingredients and enable NURA to effectively brand and market its products, resonating with consumers’ preferences and expectations. Under NURA’s R&D Development Services, rapid prototyping and a robust co-manufacturing network are essential tools used to expedite the development process. At the same time, NURA’s specialized & functional ingredient sourcing ensures access to high-quality inputs essential for standout products.
About NURA
At the heart of its successes is a seasoned staff with over 75 years of collective experience in the food, beverage, and supplement industry. Focusing on trends and continuous development, they help NURA stay at the forefront of industry developments and spark growth and expansion opportunities.
Driven by a steadfast commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability, NURA continues to redefine the possibilities in the ever-evolving landscape of alternative proteins.
For more information about NURA, please visit the website at https://nurausa.com/.
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