Protein is king in the eyes of the American shopper. A March 27, 2013 article in the Wall Street Journal explains why: dieters think it fills them up, athletes turn to protein for muscle building and endurance, and parents push protein to keep kids going during the long school day. Does it really work? Science is not as convinced, and data from the US Department of Agriculture show that most Americans eat more than enough protein. But protein still sells, as I discovered during my visit to Expo West earlier this month. Here are just a few of the dozens of products promoting protein:
Mediterranean Snacks has an extensive line made from protein-rich legumes (read more about the health benefits of beans, peas, and lentils in Bean Briefs), including Lentil Crackers, Baked Lentil Chips and crisps made from garbanzo beans.
Power of 3 Seed Blends combine pumpkin, hemp, chia, and flax seeds with spices for sprinkling on morning oatmeal or a lunch salad, or adding to a smoothie.
LÄRABAR featured its new ALT Alternative Protein Bar, its first bar with added protein. Unlike other brands that use whey or soy protein, the protein in ALT comes from peas.
ProYo frozen yogurt push-ups match the protein of more than two cups of milk in a 4‑ounce tube. These would be a nice treat for older adults who need to up their protein to help preserve muscle.
The folks at Homestyle Fresh offer two types of microwaveable chili — chicken with beans and beef with beans – that are high in protein and targeted toward body builders.
