High Protein Peanut Flour Finds Novel Applications

Not only used in mainstream products such as confectionery products and baked goods, it is now finding new uses in innovative applications such as powdered peanut butter and nutritional and energy bars.

Oct 6 2011 --- Peanut flour – a source of high quality plant protein, dietary fibre and essential minerals – is gaining increasing acceptance among food manufacturers around the world. Not only used in mainstream products such as confectionery products and baked goods, it is now finding new uses in innovative applications such as powdered peanut butter and nutritional and energy bars.

Peanut flour has seen a healthy uptake as manufacturers strive to meet increased demand for high-protein products. Its novel versatility is illustrated by the launch of FitNutz Butter Mix, a low-fat peanut butter made with peanut flour. This natural alternative to standard peanut butter brings inherent benefits such as 91% less fat and 74% fewer calories. To satisfy increasingly health conscious consumers, FitNutz Butter Mix contains no trans fat, saturated fat or hydrogenated fats, and is cholesterol free.

Extremely low in saturated fat and cholesterol, peanut flour contains approximately 40% - 50% protein depending on the fat level and offers a healthy, gluten-free alternative to traditional flour. Peanut flour can be easily incorporated into bakery, confectionery and sauces to confer a robust nutty taste and aroma, which lends itself to both sweet and savoury dishes. It is nutrient-rich due to its high fibre and protein content and has the edge over other grain flours, providing a source of essential fatty acids which may reduce cholesterol and decrease the risk of heart disease. Highly versatile, peanut flour also provides textural enhancement.

Louise McKerchar, European marketing director, American Peanut Council, comments, “We are delighted to work together with FitNutz Butter Mix to create such a healthy and convenient product. Not only does it provide a good source of high quality plant protein, it has a longer shelf life than other standard peanut butters thanks to the use of peanut flour. We have seen a steady increase in uptake of peanut ingredients by manufacturers recently, as showcased by the launch of this innovative FitNutz Butter Mix.”