Chr. Hansen has responded to increased innovation in the dairy alternative sector with the launch of nu-trish LGG DA probiotic for plant-based dairy products.
The Lactobacillus rhamnosus LGG strain has been included in more than 300 clinical studies and the new culture is specifically developed for fermented plant bases and produced under strict allergen control.
Chr. Hansen said nu-trish LGG DA is an adjunct culture that, in combination with a starter culture, “gives a fast and robust fermentation”. At the same time, it is said to ensure the correct levels of the LGG strain to make it relevant as a true probiotic.
“We are delighted to launch a solution that brings the goodness of probiotics into plant-based foods,” said Lasse Vigel Joergensen, global commercial development manager at Chr. Hansen. “That enables us to meet the increasing consumer demands for food products with added health benefits.
“However, while health is a key driver, it still has to taste good. A product can be as healthy as you could imagine, but if it doesn’t taste good, it will never take off. Building on our competencies in fermentation and our special cultures, we can ensure the mild and fresh taste of the fermented plant base that is required by lifestyle and mass market consumers – now with an added health benefit.”
Chr. Hansen senior marketing manager Kristen Katzman added: “We know from our recent consumer survey that consumers who choose fermented plant bases do so for a beneficial nutritional reason.
“Products focusing on general naturalness and health gain the most traction among consumers, and a ‘better for you’ profile is the primary motivator for purchasing plant-based foods.”
Last month, Chr. Hansen announced the commercialisation of a new vegetable variety – the Hansen sweet potato Ipomoea batatas – using traditional breeding methods to create a natural red alternative to carmine.
The Hansen sweet potato is the basis for Chr. Hansen’s recently launched FruitMax line of bright red solutions, which can be used in confectionery, water ice, bakery and bakery decorations, fruit preparation and fermented milk products.
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