When the FDA approved a health claim for soy protein, allowing manufacturers to emphasise soy protein's health benefits on packaging, a new market emerged for manufacturers of soy-based foods around the world.
To qualify for this claim, a food must contain at least 6.25 grams of soy protein per serving (approximately 8.5 ounces for beverages).
According to leading European ingredients company Dansico Cultor food and beverage manufacturers are looking for new ways to incorporate soy protein in their products.
"About 90 per cent of our soy requests are for dairy alternatives including beverages, yoghurt and frozen deserts," said Cathy Miller, Group Technical Manager with Danisco Cultor.
"We're seeing more and more soy-based juice beverages, which we tailor according to the customer's needs.
It could be white grape, cranberry or passion fruit and orange - and each has unique properties," added Jennifer Lindsey, Danisco Cultor's Group Leader, Beverages.
These scientists claim that one major challenge in working with beverages is keeping soy protein in suspension while achieving a smooth mouthfeel.
Often soy will leave a gritty or chalky feel in the mouth.
"Danisco Cultor has tailored stabiliser blends that will reduce the amount of sediment in the beverage while delivering a pleasant, smooth and creamy mouthfeel to the final beverage," stated Lindsey.
This is accomplished with stabilisers that contain pectin, which helps to protect the soy protein during heat processing and the acidification process.
The stabiliser system also contains other hydrocolloids that help keep the protein suspended in the beverage system over time.
To mask the beany flavour of soy the company has designed flavour systems that mask the beany flavour, without imparting a characteristic flavour.
They also have developed flavours, such as vanilla, and strawberry, that work synergistically with their masking flavour system.
Danisco's portfolio includes emulsifiers, stabilisers, flavourings, various types of fat replacers, and sweeteners such as xylitol and fructose In 2000 Danisco reported net sales of $3.4 billion.