Arla Foods Ingredients has launched the first-ever organic micellar casein isolate which aims to help manufacturers meet the demand for organic, natural and functional protein products.

Micellar casein isolate is a new ingredient which is rich in native milk proteins. It is extracted from milk using gentle processing without the addition of acids. The protein maintains its chemical structure, allowing the creation of products that are as close to nature as possible.

Arla Foods Ingredients’ new micellar casein isolate, MicelPure™, contains a minimum of 87% native protein. According to Arla, the ingredient is suitable for functional health foods and active nutrition applications and is low in lactose and fat, heat-stable and taste-neutral.

The ingredient is also the company’s first ingredient to be offered in an organic version, made from certified organic milk from Denmark.

The announcement follows research that shows European consumers consider organic products healthier, tastier and more nutritious, with one in three saying they would buy more organic, high-protein snacks if they were available.

Barbara Jensen, business development manager at Arla Foods Ingredients, said: “When consumers hear ‘organic’, they think healthy, sustainable and wholesome. However, a shortage of natural, organic protein ingredients has prevented many manufacturers from entering this market. MicelPure™ Organic fills the gap, allowing companies to extend their portfolios with products that are both organic and packed with high-quality protein.”

Joe Katterfield, business development manager for sports nutrition and health foods at Arla Foods Ingredients, added: “Protein’s benefits for muscle growth, recovery and weight management have driven consumer demand in a range of categories. But while the high-protein trend is definitely here to stay, manufacturers also have to meet many other needs. MicelPure™ combines high protein levels and functionality with an offer of healthy wholesomeness that increases appeal.”