VEVEY, SWITZERLAND — Nestle SA is launching GLP-1-friendly beverages under its Boost brand that contain a proprietary whey protein microgel technology, according to the company. Nestle said the innovation allows for more concentration of protein in beverages without altering texture or taste, while helping consumers manage blood sugar levels and appetite while on GLP-1 medications.
"Whey protein is known for its high nutritional quality but can clump together when heated as a concentrated liquid, an essential step for making shelf-stable ready-to-drink beverages,” said Christophe Schmitt, senior expert, Protein Science & Technology at Nestle Research. “This can result in increased thickness of the liquid and off flavors. Our novel technology enables us to develop beverages with high concentrations of whey protein, while ensuring great taste and texture for the consumer. This can lead to breakthrough innovations that support weight management."
Nestle’s whey protein microgel technology is connected to 11 different patents.
| Photo: Nestle SAA clinical study conducted by Nestle in collaboration with external partners substantiated the efficacy of the technology, according to the company. The study, which involved participants with type-2 diabetes, showed that a pre-meal drink containing 10 grams of Nestle’s whey protein microgels lowered glucose response and increased the release of GLP-1, the gut hormone that helps to regulate blood sugar levels, slow digestion and increase satiety. The results of the study were recently published in the journal Metabolites.
The whey protein microgel technology is connected to 11 different patents and is part of more than 100 patents the company has filed in the last 10 years for whey protein related innovations.
Another side effect of taking GLP-1 medication is loss of muscle, known as sarcopenia. Nestle said its microgel technology will help GLP-1 users to retain muscle while on the medication.
The first product to utilize the microgel technology is Boost Pre-Meal Hunger Support, a liquid shot formulated to help manage hunger. When consumed 10 to 30 minutes before a meal, the drink helps promote the body's natural production of the hormone GLP-1 in response to a meal. Boost Pre-Meal Hunger Support is available to consumers as a shop test in the United States through Nestle Health Science.
The company also developed Boost Advanced, a shake that meets the nutritional recommendations for users of GLP-1 receptor agonists. The shake contains 35 grams of protein to preserve muscle during weight loss, along with a blend of nutrients intended to support digestive health and energy metabolism. Boost Advanced will be available in the US starting in June, in chocolate and french vanilla flavors.
Other recent GLP-1-focused innovations from Nestle include Full Factor, a protein-rich beverage under the Vital Pursuit brand, Nestle’s line of foods to support GLP-1 weight loss medication users in the US. Currently available as a shop test, the drink features 15 grams of protein and 10 grams of fiber. It also contains essential vitamins, no added sugar and is formulated to keep consumers feeling satiated.
