Anuga FoodTec 2018

•••25••• Innovationen R esearchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Pro- cess Engineering and Packaging (IVV) have devel- oped a process that uses the lupine seeds as a basis for a protein-containing beverage with a refreshing and sour taste. The institute of brewing and bever- age technology at the Technical University of Munich was involved in the project. During the research process, the researchers had to overcome several hurdles. In particular, the plant – a genus of plant from the legume family – contains phytic acid, like all legumes such as beans, peas and peanuts. This particular acid binds valuable minerals and inhibits enzymes and is therefore difficult to digest. The researchers have developed a pro- cess that preserves the sweet lupines’ nutritious proteins and reduces the undesirable phytic acid during processing. The scientists rely on a com- bination of malts and special microorganisms. The latter degrades the phytic acid hydrolyti- cally. A two-stage mash- ing and fermentation process is used. The researchers have opti- mized and adapted this relatively uncomplicated nonetheless delicate process in several places. The result: a lupine extract in form of a paste or powder. This is then the starting point for a wholesome, nu- tritious and refreshing beverage. Moreover, by using the extract as the basic ingredient for the beverage, the protein content can be adjusted as needed. The lupine extract has a relatively neutral taste, which allows for a wide variety of taste options. The manufacturing process is similar to beer brewing and uses devices like mashing pans, lauter tuns or fer- menting tanks, which every brewery has. The lupine plant is not suitable for consumption when found in the wild, yet cultivated lupines supply high- quality protein and can therefore serve as the basis for healthy refreshing beverages. Photo: John Raetz / pixelio.de A protein-rich yet refreshing smoothie for the summer: the extract of the sweet lupine can be made into a great variety of beverages. Photo: Fraunhofer IVV A healthy and refreshing lupine protein drink Process preserves sweet lupines’ nutritious proteins and reduces undesirable phytic acid Anzeige