Arla Foods delivers key high protein solution for chocolate confectionery

A key sector breakthrough has been claimed by Arla Foods Ingredients in creating a ‘plug and play’ solution targeting manufacturers seeking to create indulgent bars with high protein content, writes Neill Barston.

The move comes amid a wider drive to deliver product ranges that fulfil ‘better for you’ requirements, as shoppers have registered a sustained interest in healthier options through the pandemic.

Arla noted that 80% of consumers state they are interested in protein (up from 69% in 2014), with bar series are increasingly common in retail outlets.

However, most have a more uniform mass than indulgent confectionery options, which can offer a wider variety of layered textures. This is a challenge in the increasingly saturated bar market, where texture is a major driver of consumer purchasing decisions.

In response, Arla has released its Ingredients has launched a protein bar concept that allows brands to raise the protein content of every part of their bars – including the mass, filling and coating – without increasing size or compromising on taste or texture.

The new recipe is based on high-quality whey and milk protein ingredients from the company’s Lacprodan range. It ensures that rich chocolate mass retains its flavour and softness throughout shelf life and offers 30% protein per bar, allowing for high-protein claims. As a “plug and play” solution, it can be used by brands as it is or as the basis for their own formulations.

Laima Liepinyte, Sales Development Manager, Health & Performance Nutrition at Arla Foods Ingredients, said: “In the crowded bar market, manufacturers need to capture the attention of consumers seeking high-protein options that are just as appealing as their confectionery counterparts. With Lacprodan ingredients, they can create multi-layer protein bars with a palette of textures and a soft, light and creamy mouthfeel. As well as delivering pathways to success for wellness-focused manufacturers, this new concept opens new doors for high-protein confectionery products.”

The new concept will be launched on September 15th in a webinar hosted by the company in partnership with Nutrition Integrated: It will also be showcased at SupplySide West, Las Vegas, on 2nd and 3rd