Introduction to Nestlé’s New Technology
Nestlé has announced a groundbreaking development in dairy ingredient processing, introducing a technology that reduces the fat content in milk powder by up to 60% without compromising quality, taste, or texture. This innovative procedure is a part of Nestlé’s ongoing efforts to enhance the nutritional value, affordability, and sustainability of its products.
How the Technology Works
The core process is based on the binding of larger milk protein clusters, known as aggregates, during the manufacture of milk powders. These protein aggregates are sufficiently large to mimic the size of fat droplets, providing a creamy mouthfeel, yet small enough to avoid a sandy texture. This balance ensures that the reduced-fat milk powder retains the desirable creamy texture that consumers expect.
Initial Applications and Future Plans
Currently, this new technology is implemented in Ninho Adulto, a popular milk powder in Brazil. However, Nestlé plans to extend this technology to other dairy products within its portfolio and expand to additional markets worldwide. Laurent Alsteens, Global Category Head in Nestlé’s Nutrition Strategic Business Unit, emphasized that this innovation improves consumer experience and aligns with Nestlé’s commitment to offering healthier options without sacrificing taste.
Nutritional and Market Impact
Nestlé’s ongoing mission includes reducing added sugars, sodium, and saturated fats in their products, while ensuring taste and texture remain unaltered. In 2023, the company introduced a breakthrough sugar reduction technology, showing consistent dedication to healthier food options. Despite challenges such as the discontinuation of the lower-sugar Milkybar Wowsomes, Nestlé remains committed to improving nutritional aspects and has pledged to increase sales of nutritious products by 50% by 2030.
Conclusion
With consumers gravitating towards healthier food choices, Nestlé’s new fat reduction technology marks a significant milestone. This innovation demonstrates Nestlé’s proactive approach to meeting consumer needs without compromising on the essential qualities that make their products beloved globally.