13/06/2026

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LYFE SATURDAY | JUNE 13, 2026

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Ű BY EE ANN NEE

M OVE over, soy. Step aside, pea protein. There is a new ingredient called sunflower protein entering the plant-based beverage scene and it is about to shine. While we have spent the last few years getting accustomed to plant-based milk from oat, almond, soy and pea sources, food scientists have been quietly hunting for the next alternative plant-based protein. With the rise of lifestyle nutrition, health-conscious consumers now value functional products such as protein-enriched beverages, fortified drinks and supplements. In Malaysia, the plant-based beverage market is poised for strong growth, projected to increase to US$39.7 billion (RM162 billion) by 2031, from US$18.5 billion in 2025. Nutritional profile With up to 50% protein, in addition to fibre and a variety of vitamins and antioxidants, sunflower protein has a nutritional profile that can be used to offer functional benefits. Sunflower protein has a neutral, slightly nutty taste and an off-white colouring. These attributes mean it can be used to create anything from iced coffee to yoghurt. It is also generally flexible – it can be used as a base ingredient for a plant-based functional beverage or as an addition to a dairy product to make a hybrid offering with unique properties. Sunflower protein is seeing rising interest thanks to its sustainability, allergen-free profile, complete amino acid composition and neutral taste suited for ready-to-drink beverages. ingredients Ingredient innovation is thoroughly reshaping the food supplements and nutrition category. Tetra Pak Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines and Indonesia marketing director John Jose said discussions are ongoing to develop sunflower protein in its markets. “Nobody has it yet. It’s a race. Hopefully we can use it in Malaysia first. One of our areas (of development) is utilising it with coffee or for barista application. The Tetra Pak exploring unique

Sunflower’s potential as a high performance protein is being explored across commercial beverage applications. – AI-GENERATED PIC

Next-generation ingredient

o Sunflower protein makes entry into new plant-based beverages list

(made with sunflower, rice and soy). Cost-wise, he said sunflower protein can be more affordable compared with other plant-based ingredients, with the exception of soya, which is already an affordable protein source. “Ingredients are something we can work with to drive more concepts that land packages, especially in the plant-based category.” Whether you are a vegan, a drinks enthusiast or just someone looking to optimise your nutrition, this new ingredient is about to shine as the next plant-based protein.

good thing about this ingredient is its ‘neutral’ taste. When used in coffee, it doesn’t overpower the coffee,” he told theSun . He said the company has a unit based in Europe that identifies ingredients that are unique and can offer differentiation or functionality to beverage products. It has found a supplier in Bulgaria that supplies high quality food grade sunflower protein powder that can be used for liquid food. With that, it has developed products such as Sun Barista (sunflower and coffee) and TriPlus

Tetra Pak has created drinks using sunflower as a key ingredient. – PIC FROM TETRA PAK

Protein as daily foundation for strength, energy, performance P R OTEIN is often associated with athletes, gym routines or weight goals – but its role in the body goes far beyond performance. For active adults, protein is a daily foundation that supports strength, energy, recovery and overall well-being. Whether someone trains regularly, stays active through work or simply wants to feel stronger and more resilient, consistent protein intake plays a central role in supporting an active lifestyle. Protein beyond gym metabolically active tissue, meaning it plays a role in how the body uses energy. Supporting muscle through adequate protein intake helps maintain a healthy metabolism and supports long term weight management when combined with balanced nutrition and regular movement. Consistency matters muscle maintenance and appetite control. Meals that include adequate protein tend to be more satisfying and help reduce energy dips that can occur when meals rely too heavily on refined carbohydrates alone. This approach also supports recovery from everyday physical stress. Pairing protein with carbohydrates after activity helps replenish energy stores while supporting muscle repair. Over time, these habits can improve consistency and reduce soreness, making it easier to stay active. Choosing quality and variety diet quality. Modern schedules can make it challenging to meet protein needs through meals alone. Busy mornings, long workdays and calorie conscious eating patterns can all contribute to gaps. Convenient protein rich snacks, smoothies or shakes can help support intake without requiring large portions or excessive calories, especially on days when meals are rushed or delayed. Protein and ageing

carrying groceries, climbing stairs or staying steady on one’s feet rely on muscle strength. Adequate protein, combined with regular movement, helps the body adapt to physical stress and maintain functional capacity across the lifespan. Bottom line While the recommended intake of protein is 0.83g per kg body weight a day, the goal with protein is not excess, restriction or perfection. It is consistency. Small daily choices such as including protein at breakfast, balancing meals and planning ahead for busy days add up overtime. It is a daily nutrient that supports movement, recovery and long-term vitality. When protein intake is consistent and balanced, it becomes a powerful tool for supporting an active, energised life. This article is contributed by Herbalife director of sports performance and nutrition education Dr Krissy Ladner.

One common misconception is that protein is only important after intense workouts or when someone wants to gain muscle mass. In reality, the body benefits most when protein is consumed consistently throughout the day. The Malaysian Dietary Guidelines 2020 highlighted protein deficiency, which can occur at any age due to poor diet or illness, is linked to impaired growth, weakened immunity and loss of muscle mass, increasing the risk of stunting in children and frailty in older adults. Spreading protein intake across meals helps support steady energy levels,

As we age, the body naturally becomes less efficient at maintaining muscle mass, a process that can begin as early as midlife. This gradual decline can affect strength, balance and mobility if not addressed. Consistent protein intake helps support muscle maintenance and repair, which plays a critical role in staying active, resilient and independent over time. Maintaining lean muscle is not just about performance – it supports everyday function. Simple activities such as

Protein provides the building blocks needed to maintain and repair muscle tissue. Every time we move, lift, walk or exercise, muscle fibres are challenged. Protein helps the body recover from that stress and adapt by maintaining lean muscle mass. This process supports physical strength, mobility and metabolic health over time, all of which are essential for staying active at any age. Protein also supports metabolic health. Lean muscle mass is

Quality and variety matter when it comes to protein. Lean animal proteins such as fish, poultry, eggs and lower fat dairy provide essential amino acids in a highly bioavailable form. Plant-based options such as legumes, soy foods, nuts, seeds and whole grains contribute protein along with fibre and phytonutrients. Including a mix of sources allows people to meet their needs while supporting overall