Powered by Protein Production Technology InternationalA protein ingredient is only as valuable as the data behind it. But as alternative proteins become more diverse, accurately measuring protein content is becoming increasingly complex. In this episode of the Protein Production Technology International podcast, Nick Bradley was joined by Bryan Tracy of Superbrewed Food, Muyiwa Akintoye of Planetary, Abhishek Bhattacharya of RISE Research Institutes of Sweden, Dr Lukas Brieger of C. Gerhardt GmbH, and Michelle Kuzio of Xylem Lab Solutions to explore one of the industry's most important - and often overlooked - challenges: determining what protein is actually present in next-generation foods. The discussion examined why traditional protein measurement methods can produce unexpected results when applied to plant proteins, microbial biomass, fermentation-derived ingredients, and other emerging food systems. The panel explored the implications of non-protein nitrogen, complex ingredient compositions, and the analytical decisions that can significantly influence reported protein values. The speakers also compared the strengths and limitations of Kjeldahl and Dumas methodologies, discussing how laboratories balance accuracy, speed, automation, safety, and sustainability when selecting analytical approaches. The conversation highlighted why protein measurement is not simply a laboratory exercise, but a critical factor in product development, labeling, regulatory compliance, and commercial credibility. From analytical validation and scale-up to the future of protein characterization, the episode offered practical insights into the science underpinning the alternative protein industry. A must-listen for food scientists, analytical laboratories, ingredient manufacturers, quality assurance professionals, regulatory specialists, and anyone working to bring next-generation protein products to market.
