Nestlé is leveraging its expertise in protein innovation to deliver differentiating nutritional solutions for consumers focused on weight management, including GLP-1 weight loss medication users. This is a strategic focus area for the company’s innovation efforts.
To address specific consumer health needs related to weight management, scientists at Nestlé have developed a proprietary protein technology. It is designed to enable the development of protein-rich beverages that provide convenient, on-the-go nutritional solutions for managing blood sugar levels and appetite. The whey protein microgel technology is backed by 11 different patents and is part of more than 100 patents that the company has filed in the last 10 years for whey protein-related innovations.
A clinical study conducted by Nestlé scientists in collaboration with external partners has substantiated the efficacy of this technology. The study, which involved participants with type-2 diabetes, showed that a pre-meal drink containing 10 grams of the whey protein microgels lowers glucose response and increases 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.
Said Christophe Schmitt, Senior Expert Protein Science & Technology, Nestlé Research: “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. This can result in increased thickness of the liquid and off flavours. 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.”
The first product to utilise this technology is Boost Pre-Meal Hunger Support, a liquid shot containing whey protein microgels that is designed to help manage hunger and feeling satisfied. When consumed 10-30 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 Nestlé Health Science.
Additionally, Nestlé is also delivering solutions that help to address the nutritional gaps that people often face during weight loss, particularly when taking GLP-1 receptor agonists, which can lead to potential nutrient deficiencies and loss of lean muscle mass.
The company recently developed Boost Advanced, a shake that meets science-based nutritional recommendations for users of GLP-1 receptor agonists. The shake contains 35 grams of high-quality protein to preserve muscles during weight loss, along with a special blend of nutrients designed to support digestive health and energy metabolism. Boost Advanced will be available in the US starting in June, offering two varieties: Rich Chocolate and French Vanilla.
Concluded Andrew Franklin, President, Holistic Health, Nestlé Health Science US: “We are leveraging our nutrition science expertise to support consumers on weight loss journeys, including GLP-1 medication users, with innovative solutions. As we explore complementary support to weight loss management, we aim to address arising nutritional needs like maintaining muscle mass and supporting metabolic health with innovations that come in convenient on-the-go formats.”  For more visit nestle.com
