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Ultra Sheer Technology (UST): Revolutionizing Protein Blending for Superior Nutrition and Taste

Agriculture
Food Production & Products
Food Processing & Equipment
Food Nutrition & Quality Enhancement
College
College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences (CFAES)
Researchers
Balasubramaniam, V M "Bala"
Janahar, Jerish Joyner
Jimenez-Flores, Rafael
Licensing Manager
Dahlman, Jason "Jay"
(614)292-7945
dahlman.3@osu.edu

T2020-188

The Need: The food industry grapples with meeting escalating consumer demands for health-centric, eco-friendly, and economically viable protein-based diets. Despite the surge in popularity of plant-based milk products, consumer reluctance persists due to lackluster flavors and compromised taste. Additionally, there's a pressing need to attain the unparalleled nutritional excellence of dairy milk proteins merged with the advantages of plant proteins. Conventional protein blending methods fall short, resulting in undesirable sedimentation and clumping during the blending process. A pioneering solution is imperative to craft a homogeneous product amalgamating animal and plant proteins while upholding superior taste and nutritional value.

The Technology: Ultra Sheer Technology (UST) offers an innovative approach to seamlessly blend proteins from plant and dairy sources. This groundbreaking process involves subjecting the liquid blend to intense pressure (up to 400 MPa), shear, and controlled thermal exposure via a minuscule nozzle. Through this precise treatment, UST induces structural alterations in milk fat globules and casein micelles, fortifying stability and preventing creaming. Consequently, the UST process facilitates the creation of a seamlessly homogeneous product, expertly melding animal and plant proteins.

Commercial Applications:

  • Hybrid Protein Foods: Crafting hybrid products that harmoniously combine animal and plant proteins, offering balanced nutrition and exceptional taste.
  • Plant-Based Milk Alternatives: Developing smooth and delectable milk substitutes using plant and dairy proteins, catering to lactose-intolerant and health-conscious consumers.
  • Nutritional Supplements: Formulating premium-quality protein supplements with enhanced taste and solubility for fitness enthusiasts and health seekers.

Benefits/Advantages:

  • Superior Taste and Texture: UST enables the creation of protein blends boasting natural, enticing flavors, appealing to both flexitarians and health-conscious consumers.
  • Enhanced Nutritional Value: Combining animal and plant proteins results in a harmonious blend of amino acids, delivering unparalleled nutritional benefits.
  • Improved Stability and Shelf Life: The UST process enhances emulsion stability and prevents protein sedimentation, ensuring consistent product quality and prolonged shelf life.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: By amalgamating animal and plant proteins, manufacturers can achieve cost-effective formulations without compromising nutritional integrity.
  • Sustainable Solution: Leveraging pea protein and dairy sources, UST contributes to sustainability efforts, minimizing the environmental impact of food production.

With Ultra Sheer Technology, the food industry is poised to revolutionize protein blending, offering consumers a diverse array of nutritious and delectable products tailored to their health and taste preferences.