Protein-complexed mct oil, method of manufacture, and food products made therefrom

Abstract

Protein-complexed MCT oil includes MCT droplets or particles encapsulated by and/or complexed with protein-based wall material. Protein-complexed MCT oil can be used as an additive for food products. The wall material includes protein, e.g., pea protein, emulsifier(s), optional co-emulsifier(s), and optional polysaccharide(s). Protein-complexed MCT oil may optionally include supplemental oil(s), such as that contain one or more essential omega-3 fatty acids (ALA, EPA and DHA) and optionally one or more essential omega-6 fatty acids. The protein-complexed MCT oil may be consumed by users as desired, e.g., by adding the protein-complexed MCT oil to food or drink products, such as plant flour (e.g., to make blended plant-MCT flour), liquid coffee creamer, bubble tea, jelly, ice cream, yogurt, processed meats (e.g., lunch meat), pet foods, baked foods, vitamin supplements, energy bars, and drink mixes. The food and drink products have increased nutrition provided by the MCT oil and pea protein.