Alpha-lactalbumin is a protein fraction found in milk, particularly in the milk of mammals such as cows and humans. It is one of the major fractions of whey protein, which is commonly used as a dietary supplement. Alpha-lactalbumin has a high nutritional value and is a rich source of essential amino acids, particularly tryptophan.

With protein manufacturers able to purify this protein fraction, it has led to its use in infant formula, as it enables infant formula products to better match the amino acid profile of mother’s milk. This may favorably influence long term health of the infants compared to standard infant formulas.

Its benefits go beyond just infant, however, with the higher tryptophan level thought to influence serotonin synthesis, which may then influence the sleep-wake cycle and satiety. Alpha-lactalbumin could play a key role in overnight recovery products, due to its unrivalled essential amino acid composition, high digestibility and increased level of tryptophan.

Alpha-lactalbumin is used in a variety of applications in the food industry due to its nutritional and functional properties. Here are some of the common applications of alpha-lactalbumin:

• Infant formula: Alpha-lactalbumin is a major protein component of breast milk and is therefore an important ingredient in infant formulas. It provides essential amino acids and bioactive peptides that are important for infant growth and development.
• Sports nutrition: Alpha-lactalbumin is a rich source of essential amino acids, particularly leucine, which is important for muscle protein synthesis. It is commonly used as an ingredient in sports nutrition products such as protein bars, powders, and shakes to support muscle building and recovery after exercise.
• Medical nutrition: Alpha-lactalbumin is used in medical nutrition products for people with special dietary needs, such as those with gastrointestinal disorders or malnutrition. It provides essential amino acids and bioactive peptides that are important for overall health and wellbeing.
• Other food products: Alpha-lactalbumin is also used as a functional ingredient in a variety of other food products, such as baked goods, snacks, and dairy products. It can help to improve texture, flavor, and nutritional content of these products.

Alpha-lactalbumin is a popular ingredient in sports nutrition products, such as protein bars, powders, and shakes. Here are some of the ways that alpha-lactalbumin is used in sports nutrition:

• Muscle building: Alpha-lactalbumin is a rich source of essential amino acids, particularly leucine, which is important for muscle protein synthesis. Consuming alpha-lactalbumin before or after exercise may help to support muscle building and recovery.
• Rapid absorption: Alpha-lactalbumin is a fast-digesting protein, which means that it is rapidly absorbed by the body. This can be beneficial for athletes who need to quickly replenish their muscles after a workout.
• Low lactose content: Alpha-lactalbumin has a lower lactose content than other dairy proteins, which can be beneficial for athletes who are lactose intolerant.
• Appetite regulation: Alpha-lactalbumin has been shown to have appetite-regulating effects, potentially due to its high content of tryptophan. This can be beneficial for athletes who are trying to maintain a healthy body weight.
• Overall health: Alpha-lactalbumin contains bioactive peptides that have been shown to have immune-boosting effects and other health benefits. Consuming alpha-lactalbumin as part of a balanced diet may help to support overall health and wellbeing.

Milk Specialties Global is a leading manufacturer of alpha-lactalbumin, and there are several reasons why you might choose their alpha-lactalbumin product:

• High quality: Milk Specialties Global uses advanced processing techniques to produce high-quality alpha-lactalbumin that meets strict quality standards. Their alpha-lactalbumin is made from fresh, high-quality milk and is free from contaminants.
• Versatility: Milk Specialties Global’s alpha-lactalbumin is available in a range of formats, including instantized and agglomerated powders, which makes it easy to incorporate into a variety of food and beverage applications.
• Customization: Milk Specialties Global can work with customers to develop custom formulations of alpha-lactalbumin that meet their specific needs. This can be particularly beneficial for customers who are developing new products or who have unique formulation requirements.
• Technical support: Milk Specialties Global has a team of technical experts who can provide support and guidance to customers on the use of alpha-lactalbumin in their products. This can be helpful for customers who are new to working with alpha-lactalbumin or who have technical questions.
• Sustainability: Milk Specialties Global is committed to sustainable and responsible manufacturing practices. They work closely with their milk suppliers to ensure that they are following best practices for animal welfare and environmental sustainability.