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Novel Production Protocol for Small-scale Manufacture of Probiotic Fermented Foods
Published on: September 10, 2016
Beyond dairy: The science, sustainability, and future of non-dairy yogurt alternatives
Yan Xu1, Xueming Xu2
1College of Food Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, P.R.China.
Abstract:
Driven by rising consumer demand for sustainable alternative protein sources as viable replacements for conventional animal-based proteins in human diets, the non-dairy yogurt market has experienced significant global growth. This chapter comprehensively examines the scientific principles, sustainability implications, and future trends of these alternatives. Scientifically, the primary challenge lies in forming firm gel structures and desirable flavor compounds by fermenting non-dairy substrates which lack the inherent composition and structure of bovine milk. The possible strategies to address the two hurdles faced by the non-dairy yogurt industry are discussed, including a comparison of their respective merits and limits. The sustainability assessment is conducted from four aspects-nutrition, economy, society, and environment, alongside an analysis of health implications. The future trends of non-dairy yogurt alternatives, including the utilization of novel protein substrates (e.g., microbial protein and microalgae), assistance of artificial intelligence and novel biotechnology, and the development of personalized products with targeted nutritional profiles are discussed. With significant scientific breakthroughs emerging, non-dairy yogurts, in our opinion, are positioned to do more than compete with dairy. They are set to redefine consumers' expectations of yogurt entirely.
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