Roquette’s latest addition to its Nutralys plant protein range is its first protein isolate derived from fava bean in Europe and North America. The Nutralys Fava S900M isolate can meet 90% protein content in products such as meat substitutes, non-dairy alternatives and baked goods.

According to Roquette, the isolate offers a clean taste and light color that can enhance its functionality.

The plant-based ingredients company will unveil its latest offering at the upcoming Future Food-Tech’s Alternative Proteins Summit in Chicago, US, in June. Participants can sample a coconut milk concept containing the new protein.

Expanding alternative protein options
This innovation aims to diversify food manufacturers’ current alternative protein options. The fava bean isolate can help them meet the growing demand for more sustainable, nutritious and indulgent plant-based foods.

Moreover, the high protein concentration allows the isolate to be used in small quantities, making it a cost-effective option for food businesses that want to optimize formulations.

“Part of the pulse family, fava beans have long been valued for their properties in textured applications, but in recent years, the focus has shifted to its ability to deliver high protein levels and leverage sensory attributes. Through extensive research and development, we have been able to unlock the immense potential of fava beans in protein fortification,” says Romain Joly, global head of proteins business line.

Textural flexibility
According to Roquette, 32% of consumers don’t want to compromise on texture when consuming plant-based food. The fava bean protein isolate provides textural flexibility due to its high gel strength, viscosity control and ability to remain stable under varying conditions.

This makes it suitable for non-dairy products, such as ready-to-drink beverages and yogurt, and meat substitutes, including chicken or fish alternatives.

Additionally, the fava bean protein isolate’s neutral taste and color leave manufacturers with multiple possibilities for developing flavors without compromising on product aesthetics. To validate this, Roquette uses data from evaluations from a sensory expert panel, which states that Nutralys Fava S900M reduces bitterness, often found in fava bean protein isolates.

Delivering on the sustainability promise
In February 2024, Roquette nclick="updateothersitehits('Articlepage','External','OtherSitelink','Roquette expands Nutralys range with fava bean protein isolate launch','Roquette expands Nutralys range with fava bean protein isolate launch','341157','https://www.foodingredientsfirst.com/news/roquette-rolls-out-new-application-opportunities-with-extension-to-nutralys-pea-protein-range.html', 'article','Roquette expands Nutralys range with fava bean protein isolate launch');return no_reload();">launched four multi-functional pea proteins designed to improve the taste and texture of plant-based food and high-protein nutritional products.

The company says that fava beans are considered a nclick="updateothersitehits('Articlepage','External','OtherSitelink','Roquette expands Nutralys range with fava bean protein isolate launch','Roquette expands Nutralys range with fava bean protein isolate launch','341157','https://www.nutritioninsight.com/news/climate-resilient-fava-bean-cultivation-as-mid-atlantic-crop-gets-us27m-boost.html', 'article','Roquette expands Nutralys range with fava bean protein isolate launch');return no_reload();">sustainable raw material, much like peas, which can offer farmers agronomic advantages. The fava bean plant is also known to be a natural nitrogen fixer, which means it can be grown without the aid of nitrogen fertilizers.

Moreover, Roquette sources its fava beans locally and manufactures products at its plant in Manitoba, Canada.

“At Roquette, we’re committed to the continuous advancement of sustainability and innovation. With Nutralys Fava S900M, we’re offering a solution that addresses the evolving needs of the industry while prioritizing environmental responsibility,” adds Benjamin Voiry, global head of marketing for plant proteins at Roquette.