2022 Innovative New Protein Products

Originally Published: September 5, 2022
Last Updated: December 1, 2022
2022 program protein seminar

2022 Innovative New Protein Products Sampling Station is part of the in-person 2022 Protein Trends & Technologies Seminar. Samples of products marked by this icon ♣ will be available to taste. They include formulated, protein-based foods, beverages and supplements in food formats. Examples of plant-based alternatives to conventional protein products (but with no to minimal amounts of protein) will be included. Products reflect trends such as increased consumption of plant-based foods, keto diets, clean label, 3-D printing processes and more. Please stay tuned as we add many more products, some from 2022 Natural Products Expo East.     — Claudia Dziuk O’Donnell / Global Food Forums Co-founder and Co-owner

We wish to thank Tatua, sponsor of this 2022 Innovative Protein Product Sampling Station.

NOTE: Label information may change due to product reformulations and other factors.
Return to 2022 Protein Trends & Technologies Seminar Overview.

Nourish 3D Printed Protein Bars

Nourished 3D bar-BANANA

NOURISHED 3D PRINTED PROTEIN BARS
FROM REM3DY HEALTH LTD

♣ COMMENT: This product was chosen for sampling due to its use of 3-D printing as a process. Over 400 different flavor combinations can be created as customers can choose the base flavor or the bar, a middle layer, and a coating. For the 2022 Protein Sampling Station, bars with a banana puree base, roasted cashews topping, and vegan milk chocolate flavor coating were picked. Each bar is 100% vegan, low in sugar, and naturally high in plant-based protein.
DIGITAL NOTE: When using the online ordering system, it was easy to choose layers, and a visual building of the bar was shown. 

INGREDIENTS: (Displayed at the end of the online order.) SOY Protein, Milk Chocolate Flavoured Coating (Cocoa Butter, Gluten-Free OAT Flour (32.4%), Xylitol, Cocoa Mass, Emulsifier: Sunflower Lecithin), Glycerine, Maltitol, CASHEW NUTS Coconut Oil, SOY Protein Crisps, Maltodextrin, Banana Flavour, Erythritol, Vanilla Flavouring, Pectin, Potassium Sorbate, Emulsifier: SOY Lecithin, Citric Acid, Natural Colours
Besides the allergen warnings, it noted it was not for children under four years nor pets. Also, “Warning: Product contains more than 10g/100g polyols: excessive consumption may cause laxative effect.”

NUTRITION FACTS (Per 100g /Per Bar): Energy (kcal) 1363.4/325.48; Fat 20.41g/14.13g; Of which saturates 12.99g/8.99g; Carbohydrates 38.9g/26.93g; Of which sugars 2.56g/1.77g; Polyols 33.2g/22.98g; Fiber 2.56g/1.77g; Protein 29.27g/20.26g

PRICE: USD 49.99 a box of 12 bars (weight not given). Ordered online from company.

N!CKS Refrigerated Keto bar

N!CKS SMAK REFRIGERATED KETO BARS
FROM LUTHMAN BACKLUND USA, INC.

♣ COMMENT: Launched spring of 2022, Nick’s Smak refrigerated bars represents a number of trends; refrigerated, keto nutritional profile (including higher in protein), and are said to have less sugar and significantly fewer calories than comparable products. The bars are shipped non-refrigerated and can be unrefrigerated for up to one week. As with most refrigerated bars, the reason for recommending that shipping and storage temperature is palatability. Digital NOTE: While on Nick’s website, pop ups would announce the city where someone just purchased a bar and what the flavor was.

INGREDIENTS (Strawbär Cashew): Cashew Butter, Allulose, Dried Whole Milk, Almond Protein Powder, Erythritol, EPG (Modified Plant Based Oil), Whey Protein Isolate, Soluble Corn Fiber, Water, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Freeze Dried Strawberries, Vegetable Glycerin, Natural Flavors, Beet Juice Powder (for color), Sea Salt, Mixed Tocopherols (to protect quality), Steviol Glycosides, Xanthan Gum. Contains: Cashews, Milk, Almonds.

NUTRITION FACTS: 8g net carbs per bar = Total Carbs. (28g) – Fiber (6g) – Sugar Alcohols (8g) – (Allulose and Acacia Gum) (6g).
Serving Size 1 bar 2.2oz (62.5g); Amount Per Serving /% of Daily Value: Calories 180; Total Fat 8g/10%; Saturated Fat 2.5g/13%; Trans Fat 0g; Cholesterol 10mg/3%; Total Carbohydrate 28g/10%; Dietary Fiber 6g/21%; Sugars 5g – Incl 0g/0% Added Sugar; Sugar Alcohols 8g; Protein 13g/10%

PRICE: USD 23.95 for a box of 8 – 62.5 g (2.2 oz) bars. Ordered online from the company.

N!CKS Refrigerated Keto bar

SILK NEXTMILK
FROM WHITEWAVE (DANONE)

♣ COMMENT: Produce webpage says “Welcome to what’s next—Silk Nextmilk Whole Fat. We used our special flavor-matching savviness to make a dairy-free blend that tastes so rich and creamy, you won’t miss dairy.” At 2022 Protein Trends & Technologies Seminar Protein Sampling Station, this beverage will be compared to traditional whole milk. Claims made online: •VEGAN •DAIRY-FREE •NON-GMO PROJECT VERIFIED• GLUTEN-FREE.  Other Claims: •Six key nutrients found in dairy: Calcium, Vitamin D, Vitamin A, Vitamin B12, Phosphorus and Riboflavin; •75% less sugar and 30% fewer calories than whole milk.* •8g fat per cup; •Lactose-free; •Free from dairy, gluten, carrageenan, and artificial colors & flavors, •Verified by the Non-GMO Project’s product verification program

INGREDIENTS (“Whole Milk” Variety): Oatmilk (Filtered Water, Oat Concentrate), Coconutmilk (Filtered Water, Coconut Cream), Coconut Oil, Soy Protein Isolate, Chicory Root Extract, Cane Sugar, Sunflower Oil, Vitamin and Mineral Blend (Calcium Carbonate, Vitamin A Palmitate, Vitamin D2, Riboflavin [B2], Vitamin B12), Sea Salt, Locust Bean Gum, Gellan Gum, Sunflower Lecithin, Soy Lecithin, Natural Flavor. CONTAINS SOY, COCONUT (As of 9/12/2022).

NUTRITION FACTS: Serving Size: 1 Cup (240 mL) ~7 servings/container; 110 calories/serving. Nutrient (amount per serving/ % Dairy Value). Total Fat: (8g/10%), Saturated Fat: (6g/30%); Trans Fat: (0g), Polyunsaturated Fat: (0g), Monounsaturated Fat: (1g), Cholesterol: (0mg/0%), Sodium: (190mg/9%). Total Carbohydrate: (7/g3%), Dietary Fiber: (3g/11%), Total Sugars: (3g [Includes 3g Added Sugars]/6%), Protein: (4g/8%), Vitamin D: (4mcg/ 20%), Calcium: (310mg/20%), Iron: (1mg/6%), Potassium: (30mg/ 4%), Vitamin A: (260mcg/25%), Riboflavin: (0.3mg/20%), Vitamin B12: (3.3mcg/30%), Phosphorus: (240/mg20%)

*Further Comparison from Nextmilk website:  Silk Whole Fat Oatmilk and Plant-Based Blend has 3g of sugar, 110 calories per serving; Whole Milk has 12g sugar, 149 calories per serving. USDA, ARS. FoodData Central, 2021. Data consistent with typical whole fat dairy milk.

PRICE: USD 4.38 (7.4 cents/fl oz) WalMart online 9/12/2022

Commodity whole cows milk

COMMODITY WHOLE MILK 

♣ COMMENT: For the Protein Product Sampling Station, we’re providing samples of commodity whole cows’s milk as a gold standard/control to Silk’s Nextmilk product.

INGREDIENTS: Milk

NUTRITION FACTS: Nutrition Facts: Serving Size 1 cup (240 ml), Calories 150, Total Fat (8g/10%), Saturated Fat (5g/25%), Trans Fat (0g), Cholesterol (35mg/12%), Sodium (125mg/5%), Total Carboydrate (12g/4%), (Dietary Fiber 0g/0%), Total Sugars (12g), Includes 0g Added Sugar, Protein (8g/16%), Vitamin D (2.5mcg/15%), Calcium (300mg/25%), Potassium (380mg/8%), Vitamin A (90mcg/10%).

PRICE: USD 2.32 / gallon at Walmart.com

Three-Wishes-CEREAL

THREE WISHES
FROM THREE WISHES CEREAL

♣ COMMENT: Company announced a new flavor (Strawberry) late summer 2022, but it was not yet in the marketplace. We found it interesting and chose to profile its Fruity flavor in comparison to Fruit Loops at the 2022 Protein Trends & Technologies Seminar Protein Sampling Station. Claims include No wheat, No corn, No rice, No dairy, No oats, Peanut free, Vegan, No soy, Gluten free, Non GMO and Kosher (among others). Other: “It’s one of the only woman-founded brands in the cereal industry.”

INGREDIENTS (Fruity Variety): Chickpea, Tapioca, Pea Protein, Organic Cane Sugar, Natural Flavors, Vegetable Juice for Color, Monk Fruit (As of 9/13/2022).

NUTRITION FACTS: Serving Size 0.75 cup (35 g) / 7 servings per container. 130 calories/serving. Nutrient (amount per serving/% Daily Value).  Total Fat (2g/2.6%), Sat Fat (0g/0%), Trans Fat (0g/0%), Cholesterol (0mg/0%), Sodium (50mg/2.2%), Carbohydrates (20g/7%), Fiber (3g/11%), Sugars (3g), Added Sugar (3g/6%), Protein (8g), Vitamin D (0 mcg/0%), Potassium (300mg/6%), Iron (1.9mg/10%), Calcium (150mg/10%)

PRICE: USD 6.50 / 8.6oz box (On sale Whole Foods and online from company) 9/12/2022

KELLOGG'S® FROOT LOOPS® CEREAL

KELLOGG’S FROOT LOOPS
FROM KELLOGG’S

♣ COMMENT: Although the Three Wishes Fruity Cereal does not invite comparison to Kellogg’s Froot Loops cereal on its label, there is an obvious similarity. Thus we relay the Ingredient Legend and Nutrition Facts information below. Since flavor and texture are integral to a product, we are providing samples at the Protein Sampling Station as well.

INGREDIENTS: Corn flour blend (whole grain yellow corn flour, degerminated yellow corn flour), sugar, wheat flour, whole grain oat flour, modified food starch, contains 2% or less of vegetable oil (hydrogenated coconut, soybean and/or cottonseed), oat fiber, maltodextrin, salt, soluble corn fiber, natural flavor, red 40, yellow 5, blue 1, yellow 6, BHT for freshness. Vitamins and Minerals: Vitamin C (ascorbic acid), reduced iron, niacinamide, vitamin B6 (pyridoxine hydrochloride), vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B1 (thiamin hydrochloride), folic acid, vitamin D3, vitamin B12.

NUTRITION FACTS: contains 109 calories per 29 g serving. This serving contains 1 g of fat, 1.5 g of protein and 26 g of carbohydrate. The latter is 10 g sugar and 2.7 g of dietary fiber, the rest is complex carbohydrate. Cereal (Kellogg’s Froot Loops) contains 0.5 g of saturated fat and 0 mg of cholesterol per serving. 29 g of Cereal (Kellogg’s Froot Loops) contains 145.29 mcg vitamin A, 15.1 mg vitamin C, 1.01 mcg vitamin D as well as 4.50 mg of iron, 2.90 mg of calcium, 34 mg of potassium. Cereal (Kellogg’s Froot Loops) belong to ‘Ready-to-eat cereal, higher sugar (>21.2g/100g)’ food category.

PRICE: USD 3.78 / 10.1oz box​ at Walmart.com

Kvarøy Arctic-Salmon HOT DOGS

KVARØY ARCTIC SALMON HOT DOGS
FROM KVARYØY ARTIC

♣ COMMENT: The product was named winner of the “Best New Frozen Product” category at 2022 Natural Products Expo East. When tried by a Global Food Forums editor, the product was found to be surprisingly good with a taste and texture very similar to a traditional meat hot dog. A booth representative said high-quality parts and side trimmings from salmon that couldn’t be used for fillets were used. Certifications include Best Aquaculture Practices, Farmed Responsibility asc Certified, Fair Trade Certified Seafood, Keto Certified, Gluten Free, Global G.A.P., and Kosher. Nutritionally one dog has the full weekly recommended allowance of Omega 3’s for a week in one serving. [Samples offered  Tuesday, Oct 25, during the Networking Afternoon Break.]

INGREDIENTS (Original Recipe): Kvarøy Arctic Farmed Salmon 52%, Milk, Butter, Potato Starch, Dry Cream, Cottage Cheese (Skimmed Milk, Cream, Lactic Acid Culture, Salt, Potassium, Sorbate, (Preservative) Microbial Rennet), Seasoning Blend (Salt, Spices, White Ground Pepper, Dry Paprika Extract, Ground Mace, Phosphate, Carrageenan, Rosemary Extract (Antioxidant).

NUTRITION FACTS: One serving 3.5 oz (100 g), 2 servings per container. Per serving 193 Calories, (amount / % DV). Total Fat (13g/17%), Saturated Fat (1g/5%), Trans Fat (0g), Omega-3 Fatty Acids (2g), Cholesterol (48mg/17%), Sodium (680mg/30%), Total Carbohydrate (7g/3%), Dietary Fiber (0g/0%), Total Sugars (1g), Includes 0g Added Sugar, Protein (13g/26%)

PRICE: $99.99 ($10.00 / Count) from Amazon

Clover Sonoma Moon Milk-LINE

PINK MOON CHERRY BERRY HIBISCUS 2% REDUCED FAT MILK
FROM CLOVER SONOMA

♣ COMMENT: Clover Sonoma has introduced Ayurvedic-Inspired Milk: Tumeric Ginger, Blueberry Lavender, and Cherry Berry Hibiscus. The company’s website notes, “Savor the sweet serenity of Organic Pink Moon Milk, made with cherries, strawberries, and hibiscus for relaxation. Magnesium and tryptophan, naturally occurring in milk, bring calm morning, noon or night, while organic honey and soothing botanicals add brightness to coffee, tea, smoothies and cereal.” It is reportedly the first U.S. dairy in the U.S. to become American Humane Certified. Products can be served cold or warm.

INGREDIENTS: Organic Milk, Organic Nonfat Milk, Organic Honey, Organic Cherry Juice Concentrate, Organic Vegetable Juice (Color), Organic Hibiscus Flower Extract, Trisodium Phosphate, Organic Strawberry Juice Concentrate, Organic Natural Flavors, Vitamin A Palmitate, Vitamin D3

NUTRITION FACTS: 4 servings per container, Serving size 1 cup, Calories 160, Per serving (amount/%DV), Total Fat (4.5g/6%), Saturated Fat (3g/15%), Trans Fat (0g), Cholesterol (20mg/ 7%), Sodium (240mg/10%), Total Carbohydrate (18g/7%), Dietary Fiber (0g/0%), Total Sugars (17g), Added Sugars (4g/8%), Protein (9g/18%), Vitamin A (150mcg/15%), Vitamin D (2.6mcg/15%), Calcium (340mg/25%)

PRICE: USD 5.99/quart

Munchrooms-mushroom-jerky-SAMPLING

MUNCHROOMS MUSHROOM JERKY
FROM DISTRIBUTED BY WEST SUNSET GROUP, LLC, PRODUCT OF TAIWAN

♣ COMMENT: Mushroom-based foods and ingredients have increased in popularity among consumers in recent years. This product was exhibited at 2022 Natural Products Expo East. Online claims included “vegan,” “high in fiber,” “low fat,” and “source of vitamin D.” Claims shown on the front label were “vegan,” “high fiber,” no cholesterol” and “non-GMO.”
anic Nonfat Milk, Organic Honey, Organic Cherry Juice Concentrate, Organic Vegetable Juice (Color), Organic Hibiscus Flower Extract, Trisodium Phosphate, Organic Strawberry Juice Concentrate, Organic Natural Flavors, Vitamin A Palmitate, Vitamin D3

INGREDIENTS: Shiitake Mushrooms, Salt, Soy Sauce, Sugar, Five Spice Powder, White Pepper, Potassium Sorbate (a preservative).

NUTRITION FACTS: Serving Size 1.25 oz. (35g). Calories 140 per serving. Amounts per serving (g / %DV) Total Fat (6g/8%), Saturated Fat (1g / 5%), Trans Fat (0g); Cholesterol (0g, 0%); Sodium (480mg/ 21%); Total Carbohydrate (19g/ 7%). Dietary Fiber (8g/29%), Total Sugars (5g), Includes 5g Added Sugars (10%DV); Protein (3g/6%); Vit. D (11mcg/50%).

spoonfulone-veggie-2022 SAMPLING

SPOONFULONE
FROM BEFORE BRANDS, INC.

♣ COMMENT: Studies have indicated that risks of allergens may be decreased when a child is exposed to the allergen at a very young age. See the company’s explanation of how it works. {link to https://www.spoonfulone.com/pages/how-it-works} From the company website, “When eating SpoonfulONE, 16 foods are introduced to a child’s immune system. The immune cells in the stomach begin to recognize the foods. When eaten on an ongoing basis, SpoonfulONE teaches the immune system that the 16 foods are just foods, not allergens. SpoonfulONE covers the food groups associated with over 90% of food allergies.”bate (a preservative).

While at the Expo, Lauren Swann, MS, RD, LDN, CEO and President, Concept Nutrition, Inc., a labeling expert, noted that she had worked on labeling for similar infant products that purposefully contained allergens. “We immediately faced a challenge: there was no established FDA Reference Amount Customarily Consumed for this type of infant food product, making it difficult to determine the required serving size for the Nutrition Facts label. Depending on the brand’s intended positioning, dietary supplement labeling can be more appropriate.”
[NOTE: Sample picked up from company booth at 2022 Natural Products Expo East.]

INGREDIENTS: LIS (Garden Veggie Crunchy Puffs (older label from 2021)): Organic Degermed Corn Flour, Organic Sunflower Oil, Organic Carrot Powder, Organic Whole Oat Flour, Organic Flavors, Organic Cashew Flour, Organic Pecan Flour, Organic Spinach Powder, Organic Tomato Powder, Calcium Carbonate, Organic Pistachio Flour, Organic Hazelnut Flour, Organic Walnut Flour, Organic Peanut Flour, Organic Almond Flour, Organic Sesame Flour, Organic Egg Powder, Organic Soy Powder, Salmon, Shrimp, Cod, Mixed Tocopherols (Added To Preserve Freshness), Organic Wheat Gluten, Organic Milk Protein Concentrate, Organic Onion Powder, Salt. OTHER: List of allergens given. Web site lists 16: peanuts, milk, shellfish (shrimp), tree nuts (almonds, cashews, hazelnuts, pecans, pistachios, and walnuts), egg, fish (cod and salmon), grains (oats and wheat), soy, and sesame.

NUTRITION FACTS: 7 servings per container; Serving Size – 1 pack (10g). Calories per serving = 45. Per serving (g / % DV) Total Fat (2g/ 7%). Saturated Fat (0g), Trans Fat (0g); Cholesterol (0 mg); Sodium (10 mg); Total Carbohydrate (6g/6%), Dietary Fiber (0g), Total Sugars (0g), Includes 0g Added Sugars; Protein (1g, not a significant source of protein)

Strive FreeMilk -LINE

STRIVE FREEMILK
FROM STRIVE NUTRITION CORP.

COMMENT: GFF’s editor stopped by the Strive booth before the expo opened to talk to Dennis Cohlmia, Chairman and Founder, Strive Nutrition. Innovation in the company’s line of “Animal-Free, Vegan-Friendly” milks is due to their protein. “We have a partnership with Perfect Day,” Cohmia Strive FreeMilk owners - 2022 Sampling Station​said. Perfect Day developed a microflora that ferments simple plant ingredients to produce the casein and whey proteins traditionally found in milk. Click here for more information on this protein that’s bioidentical to that found in cow’s milk.

Cohlmia also the company uses chelated calcium rather than calcium carbonate. This typically provides better absorption. For the future “we continue to monitor other suppliers, for example, we’re considering lactoferrin for nutritional products. With some $3 billion in investments, there’s a lot going on in these areas.

This line was not available in the marketplace as of Oct. 8, 2022. Perfect Day also formed a partnership with Brave Robot to supply non-dairy whey protein for the frozen dessert. See Brave Robot product below.

INGREDIENTS: (Strive FREEMilk variety): Filtered Water, Animal-Free Whey Protein, High Oleic Sunflower Oil, Cane Sugar, Natural Flavors, Calcium Potassium Phosphate Citrate, Disodium Phosphate, Sunflower Lecithin, Potassium Citrate, Guar Gum, Gellan Gum, Vitamin E, Vitamin A, Vitamin D2, Vitamin B12.
Contain milk allergen.

NUTRITION FACTS: 4 servings per container, Serving Size 8 fl oz / 240 mL. Per serving (Amount / % DV), Calories 130 per serving. Total Fat (8gm/ 10%), Saturated Fat (1g/5%), Trans Fat (0g); Cholesterol (0mg/0%); Sodium (370mg/ 16%); Total Sugars (4g) Includes 3 g Added Sugars (6%DV): OTHERS: Vit D (4mcg/20%), Calcium (350 mg/ 25%)

Price: Not yet available as of 10/4/2022. Company website says pack of two quarts for $12 USD

Bananas for Bacon Dog Treats-Shameless PETS

BANANAS FOR BACON DOG TREATS
FROM SHAMELESS PETS

 ♣ COMMENT: This dog treat was shown at 2022 NPEE. Its 13.50% protein content, from a variety of sources, qualified the product to be part of the Protein Sampling Station. However, what makes it “on trend” is its dedication to and promotion of its use of upcycled ingredients. The specific ingredients are identified in the Ingredient List and an icon for the key component (upcycled bananas in this case) is shown on the front label. Its website claims “Responsibly sourced to reduce food waste.” “Every 6 bags purchased = 1 pound of food rescued to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.” Promotional video on upcycled ingredients.

INGREDIENTS: Sunflower meal*, potato, bacon, banana*, flaxseed meal, coconut glycerin, glucose syrup, sunflower oil, peanut butter, ground peanut, mixed tocopherols (a preservative)
* Upcycled ingredients

GUARANTEED ANALYSIS: Crude Protein (24% min), Crude Fat (8% min), Crude Fiber (4% min), Moisture (21.5% max)

PRICE: USD 5.79 / 6 oz. bag from Whole Foods

Sweet Cinnamon Egg white wraps-EGGLIFE

SWEET CINNAMON EGG WHITE WRAPS
FROM EGGLIFE FOODS

♣ COMMENT: The original, non-flavored version of Egg Life’s egg white wraps were showcased a few years ago when first introduced into the market. GFF’s editors appreciated their innovation and functionality. This sweetened and flavored version is new…and delicious. The ready-to-eat egg white wrap is at least 95% egg whites and is Keto and Paleo diet friendly, gluten free, dairy free, no flour, low net carb (1g), no sugar and protein packed.

INGREDIENTS: Egg Whites, Cinnamon, Less Than 2% of Vanilla Extract, Xanthan Gum, Natural Flavors, Monk Fruit Extract, Nisin (Natural Preservative).

NUTRITION FACTS: 6 servings per container, Serving Size: 28 g; (Amount per serving/%Daily Value [DV]), Calories 30, Total Fat (0g/0%), Saturated Fat (0g/0%), Trans Fat (0g), Cholesterol (0mg/0%), Sodium (95mg/4%), Total Carbohydrate (1g/0%), Dietary Fiber (1g/3%), Sugars (0g), Added Sugars (0g, 0%), Protein (5g), Vitamin D (0mcg/0%), Calcium (20mg/0%)

PRICE: $37.99/ two six-ounce packages of 6 wraps ($3.17 / Count)

Chocolate plus Protein-EATINGEVOLVED

CHOCOLATE + PROTEIN
FROM EATINGEVOLVED LLC

♣ COMMENT: An employee at the company’s booth explained that this product line is their first effort at offering a functional food. The package states, “Our goal was to develop this chocolate in a way that will have you asking, “Is there actually protein in this?”. There is… 10 grams in fact.”

INGREDIENTS: Organic Cacao*, Organic Pumpkin Seed Protein, Organic Cacao Butter*, Organic Coconut Sugar, Pasture-Raised Collagen Protein, Organic Hazelnuts, Organic Vanilla Bean
*Rainforest Alliance Certified

NUTRITION FACTS: 4 Servings Per Container, Serving Size 2 Bites (39 g), 200 Calories Per Serving, (Amount/% DV), Total Fat (16g/21%), Sat Fat (8g/40%), Trans Fat (0g), Cholesterol (0mg), Sodium (20mg / 1%), Total Carbohydrate (11g/4%), Dietary Fiber (3g/11%), Total Sugars (5g) Incl. 5r Added Sugars (10%), Protein (10g)

PRICE: USD 8.99/5.5oz box

Afare-Japanese-Miso-PROTEIN BAR

JAPANESE MISO SAVORY BAR
FROM AFAR FOODS

♣ COMMENT: The company’s website notes, “The only protein bar with global, savory flavors.” Three varieties include Indian Masala, Mexican Chili Lime and Italian Brushchetta. Although savory protein bars are increasing in number, the majority are sweet, which will become more of an issue with the FDA’s new definition of “healthy.” On Afar’s home page, it compares its Japanese Miso variety, which has 2g sugar, with dessert-type flavored bars: Clif Bar’s Chocolate Chip bar (16g sugar), Larabar’s Apple Pie bar (18g sugar) and RXBAR’s Peanut Butter bar (15g). Package label claims: 10g protein, 2g sugar, plant-based, gluten-free, POC-owned. Japanese Miso flavor is described as “Notes of umami-rich miso, nutty black sesame, peppery ginger, and tangy rice vinegar.”

INGREDIENTS: (Japanese Miso Variety): Roasted almonds, puffed brown rice, edamame protein puffs (edamame protein isolate, rice starch), brown rice syrup, almond butter, rice vinegar, red miso powder (soy, rice, salt, koji), black sesame seeds, brown sugar, salt, ground ginger, guar gum, canola oil.
Contains soy, almonds, and sesame. Made in a facility that also processes peanuts, tree nuts, eggs, milk, and wheat.

NUTRITION FACTS: Per Bar (1.3oz/ 38g): 170 Calories, Total Fat (8g/10%DV), Saturated Fat (0.5g/3% DV), Trans Fat (0g), Cholesterol (0mg/0%DV), Sodium (310mg/13%), Carbohydrates (18g/7%), Dietary Fiber (2g/7%DV), Total Sugar (2g), Incl 2 g Added Sugar (4%DV), 10g Protein.

PRICE: USD 26.95 per eight-1.3 oz bars

Original-Hickory-Fusion-Jerky

ZERO SUGAR BEEF JERKY
FROM FUSION RANCH

♣ COMMENT: Two trends merge in this zero-sugar jerky. Many 2022 Natural Products Expo East exhibitors offered jerky made from various plant and animal material sources. Reduced and no-sugar products were also plentiful and likely to increase due to changed labeling regulations.
To be in harmony with the “Dietary Guidelines, 2020-2025,” FDA recently issued a proposed rule, “Food Labeling: Nutrient Content Claims; Definition of Term ‘Healthy.’” updating the requirements to make a “healthy” nutrient content label claim. It restricts the amount of added sugar in products. The proposed rule mentions sugar, particularly “added sugar,” close to a hundred times.
Claims on this product include 15g protein and 0g sugar per serving, no nitrites, gluten-free, no preservatives and no MSG.

INGREDIENTS: (ORIGINAL HICKORY VERSION): Beef, Sugar, Gluten-Free Soy Sauce (Water, Soybeans, Salt, Sugar), Water, Smoke Flavor (Maltodextrin And Hickory Smoke Flavor, Celery Powder (Cultured Celery Powder, Sea Salt), Salt, Vegetable Oil, Natural Flavorings (Includes Paprika). Contains: Soy

NUTRITION FACTS: Two 1 oz. Servings per container. Amount per serving – 90 Calories, Calories from Fat 25, [Component (amount/%DV)], Total Fat (2.5g/4%), Saturated Fat (1g/5%), Trans Fat (0g), Cholesterol (30mg/10%), Sodium (510mg/21%), Total Carbohydrate (<1g/ 0%), Dietary Fiber (0g/1%), Sugars (0g), Protein (15g/ 28%)

PRICE: USD 7.99/ 2 oz. bag plus shipping

Brave Robot Ice Cream-VANILLA N COOKIES

BRAVE ROBOT ICE CREAM
FROM BRAVE ROBOT

♣ COMMENT: Brave Robot partners with Perfect Day, which supplies them with “non-dairy milk protein.” From Brave Robot’s website: “All our products are made with a milk protein (whey protein) that’s identical to the whey protein found in cow’s milk but made through a precision fermentation process (a lot like brewing beer) with no animals involved.” Claims include “Plant-Friendly Ice Cream. 72% Fewer Emissions*, 61% less Non-Renewable Energy*, and 23% Less Water*. *Compared to ice cream made through conventional dairy production methods. Data from ISO-certified, third-party-validated report.” [Samples offered  Tuesday, Oct 25, during the Morning Networking Break.]

INGREDIENTS: (VANILLA ‘N COOKIES VARIETY): Water, Sugar, Coconut Oil, Sunflower Oil, Soybean Oil, Non-Animal Whey Protein, Contains Less Than 2% Of Alkalized Cocoa Powder, Maltodextrin, Wheat Flour, Natural Flavor, Salt, Canola Oil, Calcium Potassium Phosphate Citrate, Disodium Phosphate, Carob Bean Gum, Soy Lecithin, Mono And Diglycerides, Baking Soda.
Contains Milk Protein, Soy, Wheat.

NUTRITION FACTS: Serving Size 2/3 cup (118g), Amount Per Serving, Calories 310, [Component (Amount/ %DV)] Total Fat (22g/28%), Saturated Fat (12g/60%), Trans Fat (0g), Cholesterol (0mg/0%), Sodium (210mg/9%), Total Carbohydrates (26g/9%), Dietary Fiber (<1g/3%), Total Sugars (21g), Incl. Added Sugars (21g/42%), Protein (4g), Vitamin D (0mcg/0%), Calcium (50mg/4%), Iron (0mg /2%), Potassium (90mg/2%)

PRICE: USD 5.99 / 14 oz. container from Jewel, Chicago area

Jack and Annies Jack Crispy NUGGETS

JACK & ANNIES CRISPY JACK NUGGETS
FROM THE JACKFRUIT COMPANY

♣ COMMENT: In recent years, jackfruit has been touted as an alternative meat product. More accurately, they were an alternative to meat and contained little to no protein. This product, which has added plant-protein sourced ingredients, possesses an improved protein nutritional profile. It was a 2022 NEXTY Awards finalist for the Best New Frozen Product. Package claims include “Good Source of Protein from Plants,” “Excellent Source of Fiber,” and “37% less fat than Chicken Nuggets”*Package notes that “Chicken nuggets contain 15g total fat per serving (87g).” [Samples offered  Tuesday, Oct 25, during the Networking Lunch.]

INGREDIENTS: Jackfruit, Water, Wheat Flour, Soy Flour, Canola And Soybean Oil, Less than 2% of: Methylcellulose (Plant Fiber), Natural Flavor, Sugar, Salt, Spices, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Oleoresin (Paprika, Turmeric), Baking Soda, Yeast Extract. CONTAINS: Soy, Wheat.

NUTRITION FACTS: Serving Size/Weight: 4 nuggets (82g), About 3.5 servings per container, Calories per Serving 170, [Component (amount/ %DV)], Total Fat (9g/10%), Saturated Fat (1.5g/8%), Trans Fat (0g), Cholesterol (0mg/0%), Sodium (400mg/17%), Total Carbs (17g/7%), Dietary Fiber (6g/18%), Total Sugars (1g), Added Sugars (0g/0%), Protein (7g/12%)​

PRICE: USD 6.39 /10.1 oz (287g) box at Heinen’s (Chicago area)

Mozzarella-Sticks-by-Wholly-VEGGIE

MOZZARELLA STYLE STICKS 
FROM WHOLLY VEGGIE

♣ COMMENT: When this product was tried by a GFF editor at the 2022 Natural Products Expo East, they loved the taste. It also is an example of the many cheese alternatives products where the cheese-style component (the filling) has minimal protein. [Samples offered  Wednesday, Oct 26, during the Morning Networking Break.]

INGREDIENTS:

Plant based style mozzarella: Filtered water, Coconut oil, Potato starch, Modified starch (potato and tapioca), Chickpea protein, Sea salt, Potato protein, Natural flavour (vegan sources), Lactic acid, Beta carotene (colour).

In a coating of: Water, Panko bread crumb (rice flour, pea protein, dextrose, baking soda), Rice flour, Modified corn starch, Potato starch, Sunflower oil, Corn flour, Rice starch, Dehydrated cauliflower powder, Sea salt, Yeast extract, Sodium acid pyrophosphate, Baking soda, Spice, Xanthan gum, Garlic powder, Onion powder.

Sauce: Water, Tomato paste, Cane sugar, Vinegar, Salt, Dried garlic, Modified potato starch, Sunflower oil, Herbs, Spices, Xanthan gum.

NUTRITION FACTS:

Nutrition Facts Whole Veggie

PRICE: $60.32 plus $15 shipping for eight- 8.8 oz (250g) boxes

Brun-uusto-CHEESE

BRUN-UUSTO BAKED CHEESE
FROM BRUNKOW CHEESE

♣ COMMENT: From the company’s website, “Juustoleipa – In Finland and Sweden, translates to “bread cheese.” This cheese is baked to form a tasty crust similar to toasted bread. The rich buttery flavor is great accompanied by both sweet and savory delights alike. Try it served warm as an individual appetizer or dessert with your favorite accouterments.” This protein-based product was suggested by one of GFF’s staff. It’s one of her favorites! Other Flavors Include Pizza, Jalapeno, Bacon, Garlic and Cranberry. [Samples offered  Wednesday, Oct 26, during the Networking Lunch.]

INGREDIENTS: Pasteurized Milk, Salt, Garlic, Rennet

NUTRITION FACTS:

Nutrition Facts BRUN-UUSTO BAKED CHEESE

PRICE: USD 10.99/lb at Whole Foods Chicago area​

HerbaLand Vegan Protein-2022 PTT

HERBALAND VEGAN PROTEIN SNACKS WITH BENEFITS​
FROM HERBALAND NATURALS, INC.

♣ COMMENTS: The gummy “candy” makes use of a protein blend as a key component to promote itself as a nutrient-dense food. Statement on the package: “Our mango papaya-flavored vegan protein gummies are an easy and delicious on-the-go snack. Each pouch is packed with nutrient-dense superfoods, protein, and fiber to provide an all-around snack for any occasion.” Label claims include 8g plant-based protein per serving, 16g fiber per serving, vegan, non-GMO, gluten-free, and 100% compostable. Additionally, its website notes, “1 pouch = 1 tree planted.”

INGREDIENTS: Soluble tapioca fiber, Protein blend (pea protein, brown rice protein, chickpea powder, lentil protein), Isomalto-oligosaccharides, Vegetable glycerin, Purified water, Agar, Natural flavors, Citric Acid Annatto, Bea Carotene Organic Stevia Leaf Extract, Papaya Powder Kale Powder, Organic Sunflower Oil.

NUTRITION FACTS: Serving Size 1 pound (50g), 130 Calories per Serving. Total Fat (0g/0% Daily Value), Saturated Fat (0g/0%), Trans Fat (0g), Cholesterol (0g/0%), Sodium (85mg/4%), Total Carbohydrate 31g/56%), Dietary Fiber (16g/11%), Total Sugars (2g), Includes 2g Added Sugars (4%), Glycerin (4g), Protein (8g). [Vitamin D, Calcium, Iron, and Potassium all 0%DV]

PRICE: USD 3.50/ 1.76 oz (50g) bag plus shipping from the company.

Gardeinplant Based Chicken Nuggets-2022PTT

GARDEIN ULTIMATE PLANT BASED NUGGETS
FROM CONAGRA BRANDS

♣ COMMENTS: This product, reported to have been launched in 2021, is from the large multinational corporation ConAgra Brands. It can be purchased at several large retail chains such as Walmart, Target, and Costco.

INGREDIENTS: Water, Enriched Wheat Flour (Wheat Flour, Niacin, Reduced Iron, Thiamine Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid), Vital Wheat Gluten, Canola Oil, Soy Protein Isolate, Pea Protein Concentrate, Tapioca Starch, 2% Or Less Of: Degerminated Yellow Corn Flour, Textured Wheat Protein (Wheat Gluten, Wheat Starch), Methylcellulose, Salt, Yeast Extract, Natural Flavors, Garlic Powder, Spices, Onion Powder, Dried Onion, Fructose, Leavening (Sodium Acid Pyrophosphate, Sodium Bicarbonate), Paprika Extractives (Color), Pea Protein, Citric Acid, Titanium Dioxide (Color), Xanthan Gum, Lactic Acid, Sunflower Oil. CONTAINS: Wheat, Soy.

NUTRITION FACTS:​ 9.5 servings per container, Serving Size 6 pieces (94g), Amount Per Serving, Calories (190), (Amount/% Daily Value), Total Fat (8g/10%), Saturated Fat (0.5g/3%), Trans Fat (0g), Cholesterol(0mg/0%), Sodium (580mg/25%) Total Carbohydrate (16g/6%), Dietary Fiber (<1g/2%), Total Sugars (<1g), Added Sugars (0g/0%), Protein (14g/18%), Vitamin D (0mcg/0%), Calcium (0mg/0%), Iron (2.2 mg/10%), Potassium (0mg/0%)

PRICE: USD 9.49 plus tax for 32 oz(2 lb) [NOTE: a relatively low price of about USD 0.30/oz]

UN-BRIE-LIEVABLE-2022 PTT

Un-Brie-Lievable
FROM NUTS FOR CHEESE

♣ COMMENTS: The market research firm Technavio predicts that from 2022 to 2026, the vegan cheese market will grow 8.41% CAGR. North America is expected to contribute 38% of that growth. This product was found at the 2022 natural products Expo E. The taste was unusually good, and it was made from cultured cashews. The company website states,” From farm to fermentation, our decadent 100% dairy-free plant-based cheeses are handcrafted and aged to perfection to offer an artisan touch that’s a cut (well, slice) above the rest.” “Meltable. Shreddable. Sliceable. Spreadable.” claims on the product flyer sheet include organic, artisan, plant-based, and indulgent.

INGREDIENTS: Cashews*, Coconut Oil*, Coconut Milk*, Water, Quinoa Rejuvelac (Water, Quinoa*), Sea Salt, Nutritional Yeast, Chickpea Miso (Rice*, Chickpeas*, Sea Salt, Water, Koji Spores), Fermented Oregano Extract (Water, Oregano*, Raw Cane Sugar*, Active Cultures). *Organic Contains: Cashew

NUTRITION FACTS:

UN-BRIE-LIEVABLE-Nutrition Facts

PRICE: USD USD 10.29/4.2 oz (120g) from Whole Foods, Chicago area

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