Arla Foods Ingredients unveils next-generation protein bar concepts

Arla Foods Ingredients (AFI) has introduced “Easy Bite,” a new formulation concept demonstrating advanced capabilities in protein bar manufacturing to improve nutritional metrics and overcome critical textural challenges common to high-protein matrixes.

The concept utilises a customised whey protein solution, Lacprodan EasyBar, to deliver a high-protein, clean-label snack while achieving unprecedented shelf-life stability without the degradation typically associated with these bars.

The Easy Bite concept is an 18g bite-size snack formulated to deliver up to 40% high-quality protein. Key elements of the formulation include:

Optimised nutritional profile: the final product is high in fibre, contains no added sugar or fat, and eliminates the use of sugar alcohols such as maltitol, addressing clean-label trends while maintaining consumer-acceptable palatability.

Minimal ingredients: the concept formulation requires only eight core ingredients, streamlining the production process and further supporting a simplified, consumer-friendly label.

Whey protein functionality (Lacprodan EasyBar): this custom solution is engineered to mitigate the primary challenge in protein bar development: textural deterioration. Specifically, the formulation maintains stable softness over a two-year shelf life without relying on common plasticisers or water-binding agents (like added fat or hydrocolloids such as collagen) to manage water migration and matrix hardening. This functional stability is critical for maximizing commercial viability in the performance nutrition sector.

Peter Schouw Andersen, senior director, performance nutrition at Arla Foods Ingredients, noted that the core innovation lies in engineering the protein itself to deliver superior rheological properties. “By solving the issue of accelerated textural hardening through our customised whey system, we offer manufacturers a path to high-protein, minimal-ingredient bars that do not compromise on the consumer experience over their full shelf life.”

In addition to the Easy Bite concept, AFI is showcasing two other formulations that leverage specialised whey protein fractions:

Protein Soda: This concept addresses the ‘better-for-you’ soft drinks segment. It features Lacprodan BLG-100, a specialty whey protein ingredient, formulated to provide 10 g of high-quality protein per serving with zero sugar, offering high solubility and clarity in an acidic beverage environment.

‘Refreshed in Seconds’ Shake: this demonstration highlights the performance of Lacprodan ISO.RefreshShake, a high-quality whey protein isolate for clear shakes. It is engineered to provide 20 g of protein per serving while offering rapid foam breakdown post-mixing and a clean, refreshing taste, optimising the user experience for post-workout consumption.