Background
PepsiCo are a global leader in convenient foods and beverages. PepsiCo products are enjoyed by consumers more than one billion times a day in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. PepsiCo's product portfolio includes a wide range of enjoyable foods and beverages, including many iconic brands that generate more than $1 billion each in estimated annual retail sales.
Challenge
Achieving clear appearance in protein containing beverages is a technical challenge especially for more than 5% protein content and in ready to drink, low acid beverage systems. Typically, whey proteins are used for clear beverage applications. However, at neutral pH levels (low acid), there is generally increase in turbidity and sulfuric notes in flavor and aroma after the required thermal treatment.
Must haves:
- Solubility, clear appearance and heat stability in low acid level pH (4.5 to 7.5) and heat treatment conditions (140 - 145C for 6 seconds)
- Ability to deliver a minimum of 20g protein in a 14oz serving
- Clean taste and minimal to no off notes (i.e. sulfur) in aroma and flavor after heat treatments.
- Food Grade
Nice to haves:
- FDA GRAS
- Non-GMO
- Kosher
- Commercially available
- PDCAAS of 1
- Min of 90% protein purity (dry basis)
Out of scope:
- Non-food grade ingredients
PepsiCo are ideally seeking solutions that are a higher TRL, but open to receive applications from earlier stage solutions.
What's in it for you?
PepsiCo are actively scouting for solutions. Ideally solutions would be ready for launch in the next 1 – 2 years. They may consider funding for high-potential submissions that align with their strategic innovation goals and demonstrate clear value creation. PepsiCo are open to co-development, supply/purchase and licensing opportunities.
For Innovation applications of interest, PepsiCo will evaluate samples for desired beverage applications and provide feedback.
For qualifying submissions, PepsiCo offers the opportunity to work directly with our team of scientists and potentially consult on pilot scale trials.