Analytical Testing Instrumentation for Alternative Proteins

Analytical solutions for alternative proteins

Alternative proteins are protein sources that do not come from traditional animal based sources like meat, poultry or seafood. These proteins as developed to address a wide range of concerns from sustainability, food security, health, and more. The primary types of alternative proteins are:

• Plant-based proteins: Sourced from plants like soy, peas, and lentils
• Insect-based proteins: Proteins from insects like crickets, grasshoppers
• Cell-cultured proteins: Lab-grown meat produced from real animal cells
• Fermentation-based proteins: Created through fermentation of microbes like fungi or yeast

With decades of expertise in analytical instrumentation for the food and beverage industry, Xylem Lab Solutions is at the forefront of delivering cutting-edge analytical solutions for emerging trends. Explore our product line and application notes to see more.

Nitrogen analysis in alternative proteins

At Xylem, we offer comprehensive solutions for nitrogen/protein analysis in alternative proteins, supporting both Dumas combustion and Kjeldahl methods. These two primary techniques enable accurate nitrogen/protein measurements, allowing manufacturers and researchers to choose the most suitable approach based on their specific requirements. The Dumas method provides rapid, high-throughput results through combustion, ideal for labs needing high throughput and increased sustainability. Meanwhile, the Kjeldahl method, a reliable standard for total Kjeldahl nitrogen analysis (TKN), offers flexibility across a broader range of sample types. With expertise in both techniques, we deliver objective consultations to help you select the optimal method for consistency and quality in alternative protein production.

N REALYZER

Experience faster, safer nitrogen/protein determination with the N-REALYZER using the Dumas method in a compact, closed system.

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VAPODEST / KJELDATHERM

From Kjeldahl to Dumas, get accurate, reliable protein results with proven methods and innovative lab solutions.

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Application notes

Sugar analysis in fermentation processes

Biomass fermentation uses microorganisms like fungi, bacteria, or algae to produce protein-rich biomass, a sustainable alternative protein source for food and feed. Monitoring glucose and other sugars is essential for controlling growth rates and maximizing microbial productivity; precise control over glucose levels helps regulate cell growth and protein production, directly impacting product quality and yield. Rapid glucose measurements enable timely adjustments to maintain ideal nutrient levels, minimizing resource waste and optimizing protein output. The YSI 2900 family of biochemistry analyzers provides results in minutes. Learn more.

Application notes

Fat

Total fat content is a key quality parameter in alternative protein products, impacting flavor, texture, and nutritional value. The Weibull-Stoldt method is a well-established technique for determining total fat content, particularly in food and alternative protein samples. This method involves a hydrolysis step, followed by fat extraction. In this process, the Hydrotherm system is used to perform acid hydrolysis, breaking down the sample’s complex matrix to release fats, making them accessible for extraction. Once hydrolysis is complete, the Soxtherm system performs the extraction using organic solvents to separate fats from the sample, allowing for precise measurement of total fat content.

The combination of Hydrotherm and Soxtherm provides a fast, efficient, and highly reproducible method for fat analysis, adhering to standard methods and delivering consistent results in both research and industrial applications.

Application notes

Watch on-demand webinars

Explore expert-led webinars covering nitrogen, sugar, and fat analysis in alternative proteins. Learn best practices, method selection, and real-world applications—from plant-based products to insect and fermented proteins.