The disclosure describes methods for the purification of
protein-enriched extracts to provide concentrates and isolates and methods for incorporation of such materials into products. The
purification methods are adapted for removal of one or more of ash,
metal salts, alkaloids,
particulates,
heavy metals, and other impurities and / or contaminants from extracts, as well as modifying the sensory characteristics (e.g.,
odor, color, and / or taste characteristics) of extracts. The methods generally include
diafiltration, treatment with functionalized resins, and supercritical extraction. A
protein composition in the form of a concentrate or isolate is provided, the
protein composition including
RuBisCO, F2 fraction proteins, or combination thereof extracted from a
plant of the
Nicotiana species, wherein the
protein composition is characterized by one or more of: an ash content of less than about 15% by weight; a
nicotine content of less than about 10 μg / g; and a heavy
metal content of less than about 60 μg / g.