NNB, Axiom Foods Partner on Plant Protein Technology
NNB Nutrition has partnered with Axiom Foods to introduce PeptiClear, a range of hydrolyzed plant protein ingredients designed to provide an alternative to dairy proteins across food and beverage applications, including baked goods and high-protein snacks.
The partnership comes amid growing demand for protein-enriched products beyond the traditional sports nutrition category. According to the companies, increasing demand for whey protein, coupled with its dependence on dairy and cheese production, is contributing to tighter supply and higher costs for food manufacturers.
PeptiClear is positioned as a scalable plant-based alternative for manufacturers looking to diversify their protein sources. The hydrolyzed plant proteins are designed to address some of the formulation challenges commonly associated with plant proteins, including flavor, grittiness, opacity and limited solubility.
NNB said the ingredients offer a more neutral flavor profile, improved functionality and high solubility. In addition to baked goods and high-protein snacks, potential applications include functional and ready-to-drink beverages, frozen desserts, confectionery, sauces, dressings and other functional foods.
Dustin Elliott, Chief Brand Officer at NNB, stated: “NNB believes the future of protein isn’t about replacing whey, it’s about expanding the world’s ability to deliver high-quality protein across every food format, […] As consumer demand continues to outpace traditional dairy supply, the industry needs innovative solutions that combine functionality, scalability, and performance.”
NNB has also introduced DL-185, a di-leucine peptide intended to enhance the anabolic potential of protein formulations. The ingredient consists of two leucine molecules linked in peptide form and can be incorporated into dietary supplements and food products.
The company cited human clinical research in which DL-185 reportedly stimulated muscle protein synthesis by approximately 60% more than leucine. NNB also said separate human research involving resistance-trained individuals found greater strength improvements with DL-185 supplementation compared with an equivalent amount of leucine.
NNB is positioning the combination of DL-185 and PeptiClear as a way for manufacturers to develop plant-based protein formulations with improved nutritional performance while reducing their dependence on dairy-derived protein supply chains.
