When it comes to protein shakes and other supplement powders, taste, texture, and mouthfeel are crucial aspects that greatly impact the overall user experience.
Achieving a smooth and enjoyable texture is a top priority for manufacturers.
In this article, we will delve into the texture secrets of supplement powders, exploring the tricks that supplement developers use in products to give a smooth and satisfying user experience which is essential for consumers to keep buying products.
Choosing the right Protein Source and Quality
The type and quality of protein used in supplement powders greatly influence their texture. Different protein sources, such as whey, casein, soy, or plant-based proteins, have unique properties that affect how they dissolve and contribute to the mouthfeel.
When choosing a protein source for my supplements, I always go the extra mile to evaluate as many as possible to choose the one that ticks the box in terms of texture and solubility. I always think in terms of what will make it better for the consumers of my products, not what will make my job easier.
Additionally, plant-based proteins, such as pea, hemp, or rice protein, can sometimes have inherent grittiness due to their composition. The presence of insoluble fibers or plant cell walls can contribute to a slightly grainy texture, which may be perceived as less smooth compared to animal-based proteins.
However, manufacturers have made significant strides in reducing this grittiness to improve the overall mouthfeel of plant-based protein powders.
For instance, in my plant protein supplements, I often enlist other smoother protein sources like Sunflower protein powder.
Texture Modifiers and Mouthfeel Enhancers
Texture modifiers and mouthfeel enhancers play a crucial role in addressing grittiness and improving the overall texture of plant protein powders. Ingredients like guar gum, acacia gum, or cellulose are often incorporated to enhance viscosity and create a smoother mouthfeel.
These additives work to reduce the perception of grittiness, providing a more pleasant sensory experience for consumers. I often use Guar gum and Acacia Gum as texture modifiers in my supplements with great results.
Guar Gum powder, isolated from Guar beans.
Creaminess and Mouth-coating Effects
Some supplement powders aim to provide a creamy or smooth sensation when mixed with liquid. This texture can be achieved through the incorporation of ingredients like healthy fats, such as coconut oil powder or medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs).
These fats add richness and impart a silky mouth-coating effect, enhancing the overall sensory experience. However, the use of these fat powders can increase the cost of the product, depending on the level of use and that is why they are not commonly used.
Emulsifiers and Stabilisers
Emulsifiers and stabilisers contribute to the overall texture and appearance of supplement powders. They help ensure that the ingredients mix uniformly, preventing clumping or separation. Common emulsifiers, such as lecithin or acacia gums, enhance the blendability and smoothness, resulting in a more enjoyable mouthfeel.
When I develop hot chocolate drinks, I use natural gums like acacia. These prevent the cocoa powder from settling to the bottom of the cup rapidly, which contributes to a more uniform and pleasant drink.
The Acacia also acts as an emulsifier which helps the naturally-occuring fats in the cocoa to blend uniformly in the drink.
The benefit of using a stabiliser in chocolate drinks.
Unveiling the texture secrets of supplement powders reveals the unique challenge of addressing grittiness, particularly in plant-based protein powders. By continuously seeking feedback and investing in research, I continuously strive to improve the overall sensory experience and provide consumers with powders that are not only nutritious but also enjoyable to consume.
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The information presented on this website is intended for adults 18 or over. Its aim is purely educational and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a medical or health professional before you begin any program related to exercise, nutrition, or supplementation especially if you have a medical condition. If you consume any product mentioned on our site, you do so on your own free will, and you knowingly and voluntarily accept the risks. © 2023. Supplementscientist.com
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