Tetra pak has developed a unique process method for soy beverages, which uses whole soybeans in production. Meeting growing consumer demand for healthy and immune-boosting products, the resulting product is made up of 1,2% fiber, compared to 0,26%, from traditional soybean drinks extracted.
Plant-based beverages are a rapidly growing category in the US and Europe, and have been identified as a popular choice for consumers looking for a healthy option or a wider variety. However, further industry innovation is required to meet these evolving consumer trends.
Tetra Pak's new technology reduces waste and increases the fiber and protein content of the drink by incorporating the fiber component of soy, okara, in the final drink. The company has experimented with different mill solutions, reducing the okara particles so that they could be integrated into the final product without affecting flavor or texture, producing a versatile, high-fiber drink. This solution has a shelf life of six to twelve months without stabilizers or emulsifiers, making it a clean label product.
Hemang Dholakia, Center of Expertise Manager in Plant Based Processing Solutions and Equipment, Tetra Pak, explains: “At Tetra Pak, we have a long history of innovating to meet the challenges of the food industry and reduce food waste. The combination of our process knowledge, technological advances, and experience of working with a variety of soy-based solutions made our decision to launch a new commercially viable soy beverage solution an easy one. Diversifying the range of products and enhancing nutritional value with “whole soy” products will help food and beverage manufacturers to reach new consumers in an increasingly competitive market.”
The whole soy line was co-created with customers at Tetra Pak's product development center in Shanghai, creating a high-fiber product with no added sugars, creamy flavor and texture, and a smooth mouthfeel. Since then, more customers in Asia have added whole soy drinks as premium products that complement existing traditional soy drinks in their portfolio.
