EMBRAPA, renowned for its pioneering role in Brazilian agricultural research, is launching its latest advancements: lentil and chickpea protein concentrates. These products not only heighten the protein standard in foods like burgers and plant-based beverages but also promote essential sustainable practices crucial for the future of food production.
With an impressive 80% protein content in lentil concentrate and 73% in chickpea concentrate, these ingredients stand out as rich nutritional solutions, meeting the growing demand for healthier and more sustainable diets. According to Janice Lima, a researcher at Embrapa, “The use of pulses as natural protein sources represents a significant advancement, leveraging resources widely grown and consumed globally.”
In addition to their direct application in foods, these concentrates are essential for preparing supplements and protein drinks, offering a viable alternative for vegans, vegetarians, and flexitarians. In sensory tests, positive consumer acceptance reinforces not only their sensory quality but also their ability to contribute positively to human health.
From superfood to super sustainable
Sustainability is at the heart of this progress, with EMBRAPA focused on practices that minimize environmental impact. Melicia Galdeano, responsible for waste management studies, highlights that “the use of circular economy principles in the production of protein concentrates not only reduces waste but also preserves natural resources, aligning with principles of environmental responsibility.”
As a result, in addition to protein concentrates, EMBRAPA has developed by-products such as high-purity starches and fibers, further expanding their uses in the food industry. These ingredients not only enrich the range of processed products but also aid in creating healthier and more functional foods.
For more details about EMBRAPA’s lentil and chickpea protein concentrates, visit: “Guide for technological functional characterization of protein ingredients for the plant-based market” at the Portal EMBRAPA.