Hydration is Essential for Dry Dairy Proteins

Hydration is Essential for Dry Dairy Proteins

Milk proteins require stabilization in beverage formulations to prevent sedimentation during storage. Selecting the correct stabilizers, sensitive to both pH and temperature, is vital. Incorrect stabilizers can destabilize the protein, negatively affecting the product’s shelf life rather than enhancing it. Carrageenan is effective at neutral pH, ideal for suspending cocoa solids in chocolate-flavored beverages. Guar gum, xanthan gum, and Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC) are commonly used in neutral pH beverages, while high-methoxy pectin is preferred for whey protein-based beverages at low pH. The incorporation of stabilizers not only prevents age-related gelation with salts like sodium and potassium phosphate/polyphosphate but also improves the texture and viscosity of the drink.

Mineral ions such as calcium, potassium, and sodium influence the stability and clarity of acidified whey beverages. Achieving the correct mineral balance is crucial for stability. The choice and level of mineral supplements, along with factors like color, sweetness, and flavor, significantly impact the final product. There are numerous options available for sweeteners (both artificial and natural, low or high caloric), colors (natural or artificial), and flavors or flavor modifiers.

Hydration of whey proteins, on the other hand, requires less time—approximately 20 to 30 minutes at temperatures not exceeding 54.4°C (130°F). Exceeding this temperature could denature the whey proteins. Proper hydration is imperative, particularly as beverages with higher protein levels become more prevalent. Poor hydration of MPC or Milk Protein Isolate (MPI) can cause textural issues such as graininess or protein settling in the final product.

Here is a comparison in table format to illustrate the differences in hydration requirements between whey and milk proteins:

Protein Type Hydration Time Temperature Hydration Importance Common Issues if Poorly Hydrated
Milk Protein (MPC/MPI) About 1 hour 48.9°C to 50°C (120°F minimum) Crucial for avoiding solubility and stability issues Grainy texture, sedimentation
Whey Protein 20 to 30 minutes No higher than 54.4°C (130°F) Essential to prevent denaturation Protein denaturation, textural defects

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