Leucine-rich beta-lactoglobulin creates new protein category in sports, medical nutrition, Arla Foods says

Photo from Arla Foods Ingredients

Arla Foods Ingredients (Denmark) calls itself the first supplier able to commercially produce pure beta-lactoglobulin (BLG), a protein ingredient the firm considers a new category in sports nutrition and medical nutrition. Arla’s ingredient, named Lacprodan BLG-100, contains 45% more leucine compared to commercially available whey protein isolates, the company says.

BLG-100’s rich leucine content provides more of the muscle-building amino acid for sports nutrition companies. “As a pure BLG, Lacprodan BLG-100 delivers all the nutritional power active consumers need,” a company press release states. The ingredient also contains 26% more essential amino acids and 40% more branched-chain amino acids than commercially available whey protein.

BLG-100 is produced by a patented new separation technology. It is also said to taste better compared to leucine consumed as a single amino acid. It can be used in various sports nutrition products, including clear ready-to-drink beverages and powder shakes, for both the sports nutrition and medical nutrition markets.

“BLG as a pure ingredient is a whole new protein category, and one with enormous benefits,” said Troels Nørgaard Laursen, director, health and performance nutrition, Arla Foods Ingredients, in a press release. “Setting new standards for purity, Lacprodan BLG-100 has an unbeatable nutritional profile—it’s by far the most leucine-rich natural protein ingredient on the market. Not only that, but it also overcomes palatability and application issues, offering exciting opportunities in both the medical nutrition and sports nutrition sectors.”

Lacprodan BLG-100’s high leucine content meets the medical nutrition needs of patients and elderly people, helping to support muscle protein synthesis, reduce loss of muscle mass, and maintain physical mobility. Its neutral taste may also be more appealing to these types of users compared to that of other commercially available proteins. In addition, Lacprodan BLG-100’s high protein concentration means it can deliver potent nutrition in very small serving sizes.

The company introduced Lacprodan BLG-100 this month at its brand new Arla Foods Ingredients Innovation Centre. The center’s aim is to connect “scientists, technicians, and industry professionals from across the world” in developing new whey and dairy ingredients for food and nutrition.