Higher protein for smaller portions

GLP-1 receptor agonists are changing nutritional needs and preferences. The company points to research suggesting that many GLP-1 users fall short of recommended protein intake, while some estimate that less than 60% of weight lost may come from reductions in lean mass, highlighting the importance of protein-dense, nutrient-rich foods.

The GLP-1 companion nutrition platform combines consumer insights, scientific expertise and application know-how to help brands develop higher-protein solutions for smaller portions. New concepts include:

• Soft blueberry lemon and white chocolate Protein NutriBites, made with Nutri Whey™ Fermentis and Excellion® Textpro, delivering 15g of protein and 8g of fibre in three portion-controlled pieces.
• A compact 100ml NutriSmooth Caramel Protein Shot offering 20g of protein from a combination of whey and casein, formulated with Nutri Whey ProHeat and Micelate™ Prestige.
• A Protein Harvest Soft Baked Grain Bar with a raspberry centre, providing 3g of fibre and 14g of protein through Excellion Calcium Caseinate and Nutri Whey Isolate I.

Protein and hydration together

The company will also showcase concepts for refreshing protein beverages. It cites figures showing that around 70% of consumers say they are not properly hydrated, and that one in three link hydration directly to nutrition, pointing to an opportunity to support hydration while meeting nutritional needs. This is particularly relevant for GLP-1 users, for whom reduced appetite can make it harder to consume enough fluids.

The concepts use the new Nutri Whey Isolate Clear PA pre-acidified whey to offer lighter, more refreshing consumption occasions:

• Coconut Energy Protein Water, delivering 30g of whey protein and combining coconut water with B vitamins.
• Rocket Pop Clear Sparkling Protein Beverage, delivering 20g of protein and 4g of fibre from Vivinal® GOS in a crystal-clear, carbonated drink with a nostalgic rocket pop flavour.

Protein beyond performance

Penny Antonopoulos, Marketing Manager Performance & Active Nutrition, North America at FrieslandCampina Ingredients, said: “Consumer demands for protein have changed. It used to be about athletic performance, then about supporting a healthy, active life. Now, it’s about all these things and more; satiety, longevity, indulgence.”

She added: “Our new innovation platforms reflect this shift, helping brands bring protein into more of the moments that matter to consumers, in formats that fit how they eat and drink today.”

GLP-1-influenced eating habits presentation at SupplySide Global

FrieslandCampina Ingredients will also examine the impact of GLP-1-influenced eating habits in an Innovation Stage session, “How GLP-1s are driving innovation across product categories: supplement, food and beverage opportunities”, on Wednesday, October 28 at 11:30 AM.