Denmark-based Arla Foods Ingredients has introduced a beta-lactoglobulin (BLG) powder designed to support protein intake among hospital patients needing enriched medical nutrition.
The new product, Lacprodan BLG-100 Acidic whey protein for ready-to-stir powder applications, delivers 10g of protein per 100ml serving.
According to the company, it dissolves within 30 seconds in either hot or cold liquids without clumping and can be mixed using a spoon or by shaking.
Arla Foods Ingredients said the ingredient is intended for both nutritionally complete and incomplete products.
It includes juice-style and milky formulations, with protein levels adjustable by altering the amount of water added.
To showcase possible uses, the company has created two powder concepts: a juice-style medical drink for nutritionally incomplete products and a complete milky ready-to-drink (RTD) beverage.
Both, it said, can also be added to foods and drinks such as milk, porridge and soup to boost protein intake.
Referring to data from WHO, the company said as many as 50% of hospital patients experience malnutrition, a condition linked to extended hospitalisation, poorer quality of life, higher mortality and rising healthcare costs.
It added that encouraging patients with reduced appetites to consume adequate protein through oral nutrition supplements remains challenging.
The launch forms part of the group’s wider efforts to broaden protein options for patients with limited appetites and those at greater risk of muscle loss.
Last December, Arla Foods Ingredients introduced Lacprodan CGMP-30, a casein glycomacropeptide (CGMP) ingredient.
The company said it was intended for the dietary management of phenylketonuria (PKU).
That release followed the earlier development of Lacprodan CGMP-20, described as a “highly purified” CGMP with very low phenylalanine content.
