It all started with a simple question
When we started developing Fullfiber Protein, we knew we didn't want to create just another vegan protein.
The market already offers many options for those looking to increase their protein intake. There are formulas with different plant-based sources, flavors, and nutritional profiles. However, when analyzing eating habits, we observed something that caught our attention.
Many people pay attention to the amount of protein they consume each day, but few worry about their fiber intake.
And yet, both nutrients are part of a balanced diet.
That observation led us to ask ourselves a question:
Would it be possible to create a plant-based protein that helps supplement both protein and fiber intake, without sacrificing flavor or a good consumption experience?
This is how the development of Fullfiber Protein began.
The problem we wanted to solve
Most protein powders on the market have a very clear objective: to provide protein, and that makes sense.
Protein contributes to the maintenance of muscle mass and is an important nutrient for active people, athletes, or simply those who wish to take care of their diet.
However, when we looked at the available formulas, we saw that fiber was often relegated to the background.
On the other hand, different population studies show that a significant portion of the population does not meet the usual recommendations for dietary fiber intake.
Fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains should be the basis of daily fiber intake. But the reality is that many people lead a fast-paced life and it is not always easy to maintain ideal eating habits.
Our idea was not to replace these foods.
Our idea was to develop a practical tool that could be easily integrated into daily routines.
What we looked for in a fiber
Once we decided that Fullfiber Protein should provide a significant amount of fiber, a second question arose:
Which fiber should we use?
The answer was not as simple as it seemed.
Not all fibers behave the same.
Not all offer the same user experience.
And not all fit into a plant-based protein powder.
Before selecting an ingredient, we defined several requirements.
1. A significant amount of fiber per serving
We didn't want to add a symbolic amount just to be able to mention fiber on the label.
Our goal was for each serving to provide a significant amount.
2. A pleasant taste
Taste is one of the most important factors in maintaining a habit.
A protein can have an excellent nutritional composition, but if it is not pleasant to consume, it is difficult for it to be part of the routine for a long time.
3. A balanced texture
Some fibers significantly alter the texture of foods.
We wanted to avoid excessively thick or difficult-to-mix shakes.
4. Ease of use
Fullfiber Protein had to work in shakes as well as in smoothies, bowls, porridge, or recipes.
The chosen fiber had to adapt to different uses.
5. Integration with plant-based protein
The combination of plant-based proteins already provides its own flavor and texture characteristics.
The fiber had to integrate harmoniously into the formula.
The options we studied
During the development process, we analyzed different fiber sources commonly used in functional foods.
Inulin
Inulin is a soluble fiber naturally present in foods like chicory root.
It is one of the most widely used fibers in the nutrition sector.
Among its advantages is its widespread use in food and beverages.
However, depending on the amount used and individual sensitivity, it can modify the organoleptic profile of some products.
Psyllium
Psyllium is known for its high water absorption capacity.
Precisely this characteristic is one of its strengths, but it also poses a challenge when formulating a powdered protein.
It can generate much denser and thicker textures than what we were looking for in Fullfiber Protein.
Oat fiber
Oats are an interesting ingredient from a nutritional point of view and naturally contain fiber.
However, they also contribute other characteristics that significantly modify the texture and overall profile of a formula.
Acacia fiber
Acacia fiber is another option commonly used in food products.
It has interesting characteristics and good technological versatility.
We studied it during the development process along with other alternatives.
Why Nutriose® was the chosen option
After analyzing different possibilities, Nutriose® was the ingredient that best fit the objectives we had defined for Fullfiber Protein.
Nutriose® is a soluble fiber belonging to the group of resistant dextrins.
It convinced us especially for several reasons.
Scientific evidence
The effectiveness of Nutriose® is supported by various studies that demonstrate its benefits.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=nutriose
Neutral taste
One of the aspects we valued most was its ability to integrate into the formula without significantly altering the final taste.
This allowed us to maintain a pleasant experience in a product designed for regular consumption.
Good integration into shakes
Nutriose® mixes easily and allows for a balanced texture.
It was exactly what we were looking for in a plant-based protein.
Versatility
It works well in shakes as well as in recipes, breakfasts, or more elaborate preparations.
Overall balance of the formula
When developing a product, each ingredient is not analyzed in isolation.
What is important is how all the ingredients work together.
And in that general balance, Nutriose® was the option that best fit our product vision.
This is how Fullfiber Protein was born
Once the fiber was selected, we were able to complete the development of Fullfiber Protein.
The formula combines:
- Pea protein.
- Rice protein.
- Pumpkin protein.
- Sunflower protein.
- Nutriose®.
- DigeZyme®.
- Cocoa.
- Natural flavor.
Each serving provides:
- 15.2 g of plant-based protein.
- 8.1 g of fiber.
- DigeZyme®.
- No added sugars.
The result is a formula designed for those who want to incorporate plant-based protein and fiber into the same routine.
What we have learned developing a protein with fiber
The main lesson has been that formulating a balanced product is much more complex than simply adding ingredients.
It is relatively easy to increase the amount of fiber in a formula.
The difficult part is doing so while maintaining a pleasant experience for the consumer.
During development, we found that small changes in ingredient selection could significantly alter the texture, mix, or flavor perception.
That's why we believe that formulation is not just about adding interesting ingredients, but about finding the right balance between nutrition, functionality, and consumption experience.
Frequently asked questions
What is Nutriose®?
Nutriose® is a soluble fiber used in functional foods to increase the fiber content of foods and beverages.
Is Nutriose® a natural fiber?
It is obtained from plant raw materials such as corn or wheat through specific technological processes.
Why did you choose Nutriose® and not another fiber?
Because it was the option that best integrated into the Fullfiber Protein formula from the point of view of taste, texture, and user experience.
How much fiber does Fullfiber Protein provide?
Each serving provides 8.1 grams of fiber.
Is Fullfiber Protein a vegan protein?
Yes. All protein sources used are plant-based.
What is the difference between Fullfiber Protein and your classic vegan protein?
Fullfiber Protein incorporates a significant amount of fiber in addition to plant-based protein.
Can I use Fullfiber Protein in recipes?
Yes. It can be used in shakes, smoothies, porridge, bowls, or different recipes.
Does Fullfiber's fiber replace fruits and vegetables?
No. Fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts, and seeds should continue to be the basis of a balanced diet.
Conclusion
When we developed Fullfiber Protein, we weren't looking to create just another vegan protein.
We wanted to create a different formula.
A formula that combined plant-based protein and fiber in a balanced, practical, and pleasant-to-consume way.
After analyzing different alternatives, Nutriose® was the fiber that best fit that objective.
That's why today it is part of Fullfiber Protein, a plant-based protein designed to be easily integrated into the daily routine of those who seek to take care of their diet without complications.