IFT 2013 Review: Sprouted Rice Protein

Although rice is often regarded as a protein-rich plant, rice protein is traditionally low in one essential amino acid: lysine. For this reason, rice is usually considered an “incomplete” protein. But with the help of natural sprouting, AIDP (City of Industry, CA) now has a lysine-rich sprouted rice protein called Gabiotein.

AIDP introduced its sprouted rice protein for the first time at July’s IFT Food Expo, with chocolate bar prototypes on hand. The cream-colored protein powder is available in several grades of protein content (including an infant formula version) and in flavor profiles ranging from savory to sweet. And whether Gabiotein is formulated for bars, cereals, or beverages, AIDP says its ingredient won’t impart the characteristic grit of rice protein.

The sprouted rice protein is produced through a vertically integrated business platform whereby rice is grown specifically for the purpose of manufacturing this protein. On the contrary, AIDP says conventional rice proteins are often sourced from what is called “slag,” a byproduct of rice syrup manufacture.  

Sprouted rice protein is a low-allergen protein. The natural sprouting turns this product into a “complete” protein, but it might do much more since sprouting is known for increasing other nutrients in grains. AIDP is still exploring other nutritional benefits of its sprouted protein.