Danone expands with new silk protein

USA – Danone has launched a high-protein version of its Silk brand as the food giant aims to “reignite interest” in plant-based dairy by filling what it considers to be a void in the sector.

Silk Protein has 50% more protein per serving and half the sugar as conventional dairy milk.

It also contains 13 grams of complete plant protein, the highest among refrigerated plant-based milk on the market, as well as 3 grams of fiber and no artificial sweeteners, according to Danone. 

Wendy Nunnelley, president of plant-based for Danone North America, said, “75% of consumers are adding more protein to their diets. At the same time, nearly two-thirds of shoppers are already consuming plant-based dairy alternatives every week. The overlap between the two areas created a “nice white space for plant-based Silk Protein to jump into.”

Protein has become one of the most in-demand ingredients in the USA with food and beverage companies adding it into everything from water and bars to candy and popcorn.

But fewer than 1% of protein-focused innovations are in the plant-based drinks segment, according to Mintel data cited by Danone, providing Silk with an untapped opportunity.

The drink’s functional benefits, along with the lack of other options in the marketplace, should provide a meaningful boost to Silk Protein and provide a much-needed jolt to the struggling plant-based milk sector.

USA retail sales of plant-based milk in 2024 totaled US$2.5 billion, down 5% from the prior year, mirroring the same level the category posted in 2021, according to Circana.

Recent price increases have helped mask a pullback in unit sales, which have declined annually for three consecutive years.

Danone launches new Activia EXPERT yorghut in Canada

Recently, the company unveiled Activia EXPERT, its most advanced yoghurt, backed by Activia’s over 35 years of global research in gut health.

This new product line is the first of its kind in Canada, combining an exclusive blend of probiotics with prebiotics.

Developed for health-conscious consumers seeking elevated gut health support, Activia EXPERT offers an updated nutritious profile tailored to meet the needs of modern lifestyles: Like the original Activa, EXPERT contains more than 1 billion probiotics to support gut health.

Each serving of EXPERT provides prebiotics, along with 6g of protein and 35% less sugar. Powered by an enhanced formulation, it’s the ideal choice for those looking to elevate their digestive health routine.

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