Merit Functional Foods has launched Peazazz C, a pea protein which promises to overcome sediment issues faced by plant protein formulators in the ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages space. The protein has a smooth, grit-free texture in RTD beverages without chalkiness, even when used at higher double-digit protein inclusion percentages, according to the company.
 
“Consumers trying plant-based applications such as RTD beverages are often noticing a gritty texture, with sediment accumulated at the bottom of the bottle,” Merit’s co-CEO Ryan Bracken said. “Peazazz C is the solution formulators have been looking for to solve this common issue. With its high solubility and low viscosity, it has the functionality that formulators need to deliver an optimal sensory experience.” 
 
Peazazz C is grown in Canada, and produced with full traceability back to the farm, giving plant-based food and beverage brands a trusted source of plant protein, according to Merit. It also can support low sodium claims in high protein applications.
 
“We’re committed to providing the best ingredients to the formulators who are creating the next generation of plant-based innovation,” Bracken said. “We’re able to achieve just that because of how close we are to our supply chain and our patented protein extraction process. Together, this ensures we produce only the highest-quality product, from the field to the applications lab to the facility in which it’s produced.”
 
Merit recently achieved an AA score for food safety with the British Retail Consortium Global Standard for the second year in a row, which puts Merit in a class of suppliers that adheres to the highest-assessed food quality and safety standards.