Protein and probiotics specialist FrieslandCampina Ingredients has announced the launch of Nutri Whey ProHeat, a heat-stable, microparticulated whey protein that can provide more formulation flexibility in formats like ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages.

While traditional whey protein becomes viscous after heat treatment, the microparticulation technology used to create the new ingredient  helps to overcome this formulation challenge. Historically, creating ready-to-drink beverages has been challenging due to this issue, as high temperature exposure is required for creating liquid beverage formulations, causing most whey proteins to denature and polymerize into aggregates or gels.

The patent-pending microparticulation process used by FreislandCampina relies on thermal treatment to form stable whey protein aggregates under high-heat conditions. End products like yogurt drinks formulated with the resulting Nutri Whey ProHeat benefit from improved sensory properties, like low viscosity, neutral pH, and a clean taste from high-quality Dutch whey.

“High-protein RTD beverages and yogurt drinks offer significant opportunities for innovation, but formulation challenges have held brands back from unlocking their full potential,” said Vicky Davies, global marketing director of performance, active, and medical nutrition at FrieslandCampina Ingredients. “With Nutri Whey ProHeat, we’re bringing a proven solution, already successfully launched for medical nutrition, into the performance and active nutrition space, allowing brands to deliver high doses of whey protein in trending formats with little to no impact on viscosity. This innovation not only enhances RTDs but also paves the way for other improved formats, such as bars, that meet the evolving demands of today’s active consumers. By combining our 125 years of dairy and protein expertise with cutting-edge technology, we’re enabling brands to create premium, high-protein products that taste great and perform even better.”

Citing 2024 consumer research by the International Food Information Council (IFIC), FrieslandCampina noted that 71% of consumers actively prioritize their protein intake, driven by a focus on weight management and satiety and better-for-you beverages.

“As the distinction between casual fitness enthusiasts and elite athletes continues to blur, the demand for convenient, high-quality protein solutions is at an all-time high,” the company stated. “Nutri Whey ProHeat now offers brands the formulation flexibility to innovate with a variety of applications, including RTDs, bars, yogurts, and other on-the-go options.”