NNB and Axiom Foods Target Whey Shortages With New Plant Proteins

The collaboration introduces PeptiClear, a line of hydrolyzed plant proteins engineered to overcome the texture and flavor limitations of traditional vegan ingredients. Unlike conventional plant-based options that often suffer from grittiness or poor solubility, these new proteins provide a neutral profile suitable for functional beverages, sauces, and frozen desserts. By decoupling protein production from the fluctuations of the dairy market, the companies seek to provide smaller brands with the supply stability currently enjoyed by large multinationals.

To bridge the performance gap between plant and dairy sources, NNB has integrated its proprietary DL-185 di-leucine peptide technology into the platform. Clinical research indicates that this peptide can stimulate muscle protein synthesis at a rate approximately 60% higher than standard leucine. According to Dustin Elliott, Chief Brand Officer at NNB, the strategy is not to eliminate whey, but to expand the industry's capacity to deliver high-quality nutrition across diverse food formats. This combination of scalable plant proteins and performance-enhancing peptides offers a strategic pathway for manufacturers navigating a tightening global inventory.