ADM, an ingredients supplier for the food and beverage industry which invented textured vegetable protein in 1965, announced the launch of Arcon textured pea proteins, Prolite MeatTex textured wheat protein, and Prolite MeatXT non-textured wheat protein. These plant-based protein solutions are formulated to improve the texture and density of meat alternatives, and are particularly useful for achieving a meat-like texture in plant-based alternatives, ADM reports.
 
The two textured and non-textured wheat proteins are predominantly formulated to deliver a meat-like texture for meat and seafood alternative products, with a clean taste and blank-slate color base. The proteins offer optimal water absorption and hydration speeds that enhance processing and reliability. The pea proteins offered by ADM (made either with pea protein and chickpeas, or with pea protein and navy beans) are formulated to have minimized off notes and provide a light color, and do not require allergen statements.
 
“The key to winning over consumers with plant proteins is fine-tuning the product for optimal sensory appeal,” Jacquelyn Schuh, product marketing director for alternative proteins, said. “It is essential to get aspects like taste and texture just right. ADM is the only company offering a full portfolio of textured soy, wheat, and pea proteins which unlocks a virtually limitless range of possibilities for creating exciting new products in the plant protein space.”
 
ADM conducted a consumer survey on protein segmentation called OustideVoice, which determined that health and nutrition was the top factor motivating plant-based consumption, while unsatisfactory taste and texture are the top frustrations with the category. ADM’s textured pea wheat proteins aim to improve this frustration by improving the texture and color of products.