Arla Foods Ingredients unveils protein soda concept featuring pure BLG
Functional beverage innovation responds to consumer shift away from traditional carbonated drinks, offering 10g of protein per serving with zero sugar. The protein soda concept will be showcased at Vitafoods Europe alongside three additional nutritional concepts designed to meet evolving consumer preferences for healthier options.
Arla Foods Ingredients is set to highlight a new protein soda concept at Vitafoods Europe, featuring Lacprodan® BLG-100, a pure beta-lactoglobulin (BLG) ingredient designed to deliver functional benefits in beverages.
Consumer trends driving innovation
According to the Innova Category Survey 2024, nearly 20% of consumers have reduced their consumption of traditional carbonated drinks in the past year, with over 60% citing health concerns as the primary motivation. This shift has created market opportunities for functional beverages that support active lifestyles while maintaining the refreshing qualities of carbonated drinks.
The protein soda concept developed by Arla Foods Ingredients provides 10g of protein per serving with zero sugar, positioning it as a “better-for-you” alternative in the soft drink category. A key component is Lacprodan BLG-100, which delivers nutritional benefits while offering manufacturers flexibility in processing options.
Nutritional profile and functional properties
Compared to standard whey protein, Lacprodan BLG-100 contains higher concentrations of essential and branched chain amino acids, which support muscle maintenance and growth. The protein content also promotes satiety, addressing consumer interest in weight management solutions.
Sarah Meyer, Head of Sales Development, Performance Nutrition, at Arla Foods Ingredients, commented on the innovation: “Our exciting new protein soda concept meets the needs of consumers keen to switch out sugary beverages for thirst-quenching, healthier options. Lacprodan BLG-100’s outstanding purity ensures the refreshing, water-like viscosity, clarity and clean taste these consumers love. This enables brand owners to set a new quality standard for protein-enriched soft drinks, including those positioned around physical activity.”
Additional nutritional concepts
At Vitafoods Europe, taking place from 20th to 22nd May in Barcelona (Stand 4D17), Arla Foods Ingredients will also showcase three additional nutritional concepts:
- The Essentials Protein Bar, featuring Lacprodan SoftBar & Capolac®, combining whey protein and calcium with a high-fibre wholefood base and no added sugar, while maintaining softness throughout shelf life
- The Refreshed in Seconds beverage – a ready-to-mix protein powder with quick foam breakdown, made with Lacprodan ISO.RefreshShake whey protein isolate, suitable for post-workout recovery
- Lacprodan MicelPure® micellar casein isolate – designed for health and medical foods, providing high-quality, native milk protein with mild, milky taste and low viscosity at high protein concentrations, featuring excellent heat stability and process flexibility
These innovations reflect the company’s focus on premium nutrition solutions across multiple applications, from sports nutrition to medical foods.
- For more information, visit: https://arlafoodsingredients.com/sports-nutrition/explore-industry/concepts/protein-soda/
