The prototype successfully combined a high protein content (higher than 2.5%), the presence of essential amino acids, good sensory acceptability, and probiotic characteristics.
For two years, a team led by Ingrid Contardo, a researcher at the UANDES School of Medicine, together with Wendy Franco, a researcher at the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, and with the collaboration of researchers from various institutions, developed a fermented plant-based beverage with functional properties, based on local raw materials such as quinoa from Cahuil and Chilean chickpeas.
The prototype, designed to meet the demands of consumers with intolerances, those following vegetarian diets, and those concerned about the environmental impact of the dairy industry, was able to combine high protein content (higher than 2.5%), presence of essential amino acids, good sensory acceptability, and probiotic characteristics, thanks to the incorporation of viable lactic acid bacteria.
Ingrid Contardo, a researcher at the UANDES School of Medicine, stated: "the current supply of plant-based beverages is not covering relevant nutritional aspects such as protein quality, since this concept involves both the amount of protein as well as its digestibility and amino acid profile provided, therefore, with this development, we seek to expand the range of plant-based food options that ensure higher quality proteins for consumers, functional foods that impact both on nutrition and the health of those who consume them."
The project also contributed to the development of advanced human capital, with undergraduate and graduate theses, and a solid scientific output, including Q1 publications and presentations at international conferences
This initiative was made possible thanks to funding from ANID's FONDEF program, and the joint work of the BiopREL and Fermented Foods laboratories, with the participation of students from UC and UTEM.