Food technology innovator Hinoman has launched a vegetable whole-protein ingredient called Mankai, which it has described as “the world’s smallest vegetable”.
Mankai is an aquacultured source of vegetable protein with exceptional nutritional value. The vitamin and mineral-rich Mankai plant is a native of Southeast Asia, and has been enjoyed in Thailand, Laos and Vietnam for generations. Hinoman’s hydroponic technology enables it to grow the product faster, and in large quantities, without pesticides, while guaranteeing a high protein content of at least 45% by dry weight.
Due to its small particle size, it can be easily incorporated in its natural form into food or beverage applications, Hinoman said. Mankai’s precision cultivation method produces reliable and consistent nutrient levels, meeting all free-from requirements and enabling a clean label.
Hinoman vice president of marketing and business development Udi Alroy said: “The Mankai plant boasts the closest protein profile to animal protein. The paradox is that this tiny, single-strain microgreen delivers huge health benefits to a wide range of market targets and addresses not only the race for new protein sources but also offers perfect solutions to trendy diets, such as paleo and vegan.”
Hinoman CEO Ron Salpeter added: “All the protein parameters are high in Mankai. With its high protein digestibility corrected amino acid score rate of digestibility—0.89—it is more potent than super vegetables, such as spinach, spirulina and kale. Mankai has a light vegetal flavour, superior to algae-derived ingredients in the market.”
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