The number and range of products powered with dairy protein ingredients continue to climb globally, providing ample opportunities for manufacturers to deliver the health and nutritional benefits of dairy to consumers in new, exciting and delicious ways. An analysis of tracking data from Innova Market Insights confirms this upward growth trajectory by revealing that global food and beverage product introductions made with whey proteins and with milk proteins set new records in 2020.

Innova Market Insights predicts personalized nutrition will be one of the top global trends of 2021, as nearly two-thirds (64%) of consumers consider options tailored to them as a top priority when purchasing foods and beverages. U.S. dairy proteins are an ideal ingredient solution to meet the unique nutritional needs of consumers and aging societies as global consumers increasingly look for customized approaches to health and search for products that meet their specific lifestyles and goals. The sustainable production practices and ambitious U.S. dairy goals to become carbon neutral or better by 2050 makes the choice for dairy even easier. Understanding the optimal amounts and protein sources are important to reach health and wellness goals, so let’s dive into the key considerations.

With consumers continuing to demand better-for-you options across food and beverage categories, manufacturers are turning to dairy permeate as an attractive, multifunctional ingredient solution. Permeate’s growing popularity can be largely attributed to its versatility and cost effectiveness in delivering benefits such as flavor enhancement, nourishing minerals, sodium reduction and more.

Dairy products and ingredients—such as U.S. whey and milk proteins—are a delicious way to enjoy the wonderful nutrition naturally found in cow’s milk.

While protein is naturally found in a variety of animal and plant foods, there is a wide variance in protein quality. U.S. dairy proteins stand out as a high quality, complete source of protein containing all the essential amino acids. Whey protein is also the leading source of the amino acid leucine, which is important for healthy aging by playing a central role in stimulating muscle protein synthesis.

Nearly 150 participants from health and wellness-focused food and beverage companies in Japan attended a USDEC innovation seminar held in Tokyo May 17, 2018, where they learned how U.S. dairy proteins offer value in products targeting a variety of Japanese consumers, from the fitness-conscious to seniors.