Page 22 - FoodFocusThailand No.232 July 2025

SPECIAL FOCUS

However, protein consumption remains essential, as protein structures, particularly in terms of the type and quantity of
is a vital source of many nutrients, particularly vitamin B12, amino acids, which impact their functional properties. Especially
for consumers who choose not to eat meat, obtaining protein solubility properties, which affect their applications in various
from alternative sources is a viable option. Today, plant-based areas, such as being an ingredient in food products, including
proteins are increasingly being consumed as substitutes for leavening, emulsification, and the ability to bind small molecules
animal-based proteins. This shift is driven by growing awareness in the digestive system, such as pigments, flavors, vitamins,
of ethical concerns related to animal cruelty, the environmental and minerals. In addition, plant proteins can also be utilized in
impact of meat production, and long-term health considerations. the development of plant-based packaging materials, offering
As a result, there has been ongoing research and development benefits such as preventing the permeation of water and air.
of high-protein ingredients—especially legumes—as well as While a plant-based diet offers many health benefits, there
other alternative sources such as mushrooms and seaweed. are also essential concerns to be aware of, especially the risk
of vitamin deficiencies, such as vitamin B12, which is typically
4 Popular Categories of Plant-Based Protein found in meat and other animal products. A prolonged deficiency
Products in vitamin B12 not only increases the risk of anemia but can
In addition, processing techniques have been developed to also lead to nervous system disorders, often presenting as
create products that meet market demands in terms of taste, numbness and fatigue. Moreover, individuals who choose a
texture, nutritional value, and appearance—closely resembling plant-based diet must ensure they consume enough alternative
real meat. Currently, there are four popular categories of plant- protein sources to meet the body’s needs. Without adequate
based protein products: protein intake, they may experience protein deficiency, which
1. Plant-Based Meat – This innovation mimics the texture can lead to weakened immune function, brittle nails and hair,
of muscle and the juiciness of animal fat, along with providing as well as increased fatigue and tiredness.
nutritional value. These products are made from approximately Currently, Thailand has major producers that are widely
95% plant-based ingredients and 5% non-plant-based recognized for their plant-based food products. For example,
ingredients. They are manufactured in various forms, such as Thai Union Group Public Company Limited has developed
plant-based beef, pork, sausages, and seafood. plant-based seafood products such as plant-based crab meat,
2. Plant-Based Milk & Dairy – These products are made crab cakes, crab shumai, BBQ pork buns, and chicken nuggets.
from plants, legumes, or grains, such as coconut milk, soy Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Company Limited has
milk, almond milk, and corn milk. They also include plant-based introduced ready-to-cook and ready-to-eat plant-based meat
versions of yogurt, cheese, and ice cream. products, including plant-based chicken, crispy pork, nuggets,
3. Plant-Based Meals – These are available in chilled, and spaghetti in tomato sauce. In addition, CPRAM Company
frozen, or shelf-stable formats that do not require refrigeration. Limited has developed a range of frozen plant-based meals,
4. Plant-Based Eggs – Primarily made from mung beans, including spaghetti, holy basil fried rice (Krapao), fried rice, spicy
these products are processed and then flavored and colored minced pork rice, dry egg noodles, buns, and bread.
to resemble real eggs. They are ideal for health-conscious Beyond plant-based proteins, extracting insect proteins
individuals and those with egg allergies. for human consumption is emerging as a potentially effective
Plants are considered an important alternative source of strategy to increase consumer acceptance (Figure 1). This
protein after meat. However, a single type of plant protein cannot includes various aspects such as sample preparation, extraction
provide amino acids in amounts comparable to those found in processes, and the successful application of insect-derived
meat. Therefore, combining different types of plant proteins is peptides with bioactive properties, such as antioxidant,
a way to enhance the quality of protein. Plant proteins can be antimicrobial, and blood pressure-lowering effects. These
classified into five groups: grains, legumes, seeds, non-rice properties could drive further investment and promote research
grasses, and vegetables. These proteins have distinct molecular into the extraction of insect protein. However, despite the
promising potential of insect protein, the current extraction
processes remain relatively costly. Continued research and
development are therefore necessary to improve efficiency
and make these processes scalable and sustainable for future
industrial applications.
With modern consumers increasingly seeking high-protein
alternative sources to reduce meat consumption, food industry
operators have been investing in the research and development
of suitable raw materials and processing methods. The goal is
to create products that meet market demands in terms of taste,
texture, and nutritional value. Moreover, the global market for
plant-based protein products is projected to grow steadily,
prompting an increasing number of businesses to invest and
expand their product offerings. However, plant-based protein
products still require ongoing research, particularly regarding
their nutritional value and safety of consumption.

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