Roquette adds rice protein to plant-based protein ingredient toolbox

The new rice protein line featuring a rice protein isolate and rice protein concentrate that will debut at IFT FIRST in July 2022 in Chicago alongside the rest of the company's NUTRALYS plant-based protein line, which includes its range of organic texturized pea and fava protein line introduced in early June 2022. 

In the broader alternative proteins market, rice protein has become a new favorite in some applications due to its attractive formulation properties in taste, texture, and dispersability. 

"With a fine particle size that contributes to a smooth and soft texture, and an appealing light cream color, rice protein benefits from a good dispersibility and flowability. This allows great applications in fields such as specialized nutrition, especially in combination with other plant proteins such as pea protein,"​ said Roquette. 

Product launches with rice protein increased at a 20% CAGR over the 2017-2021 period, according to Innova Market Insights, which predicts that rice protein will become more popular in non-dairy and meat alternative applications in the coming years.

As a familiar ingredient with many consumers, rice protein has a mass market appeal that will further propel its growth as a preferred ingredient for plant-based food and beverage formulations, according to Roquette, which cited a survey conducted by Innova in 2020 that found rice is the second preferred protein alternative for consumers.

“There is an unstoppable food revolution underway that is changing how people eat. In the USA or in Europe, consumers are asking for better plant-based protein that tastes great while being nutritious and safe,"​ commented Jeremy Burks, senior vice president of plant proteins at Roquette.

*Roquette will be exhibiting at the IFT show this summer at booth #S4141 and MR4814​