Albumin-Enriched Pea Protein Isolate via SHMP Extraction

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for producing plant protein isolates are inefficient and do not maintain the native structure of proteins, resulting in suboptimal functionality and yield.

Innovation Solution

A process using sodium hexametaphosphate (SHMP) in a basic aqueous solution for extracting proteins from plant materials, followed by isoelectric precipitation, which includes steps of protein extraction, separation, and pH adjustment to produce a plant protein isolate.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If conventional methods are used to produce plant protein isolates, then the production process is simple, but the protein structure is damaged and functionality is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenative protein structureVSAvoidextraction process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by utilizing pH adjustment (isoelectric precipitation) and temperature control to extract proteins while maintaining their native structure. By changing the pH to the isoelectric point and controlling extraction temperature, the process achieves protein isolation without denaturation, resolving the contradiction between structural stability and process simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses an intermediary substance (salt or surfactant) as a mediator to facilitate protein extraction while preserving structure. The intermediary agent enables selective protein solubilization at neutral pH without direct harsh treatment of the protein, thus maintaining native conformation while achieving effective extraction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If conventional extraction methods are used, then the process is economical, but the protein yield and functionality are suboptimal

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotein yieldVSAvoidmanufacturing efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent optimizes extraction parameters including pH (neutral to basic conditions), temperature (15-80°C), and time (5-60 minutes) to maximize protein yield while maintaining functionality. By systematically adjusting these parameters, the process achieves higher productivity without proportionally increasing manufacturing complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements continuous protein extraction through prolonged exposure to optimal conditions (30-60 minutes), ensuring complete protein solubilization and maximizing yield. This continuous action allows efficient extraction without requiring multiple sequential steps, thereby maintaining ease of manufacture while improving productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

3Productivity

If proteins are extracted using harsh methods, then the extraction efficiency is high, but the protein functionality is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveextraction efficiencyVSAvoidprotein functionality
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs salt or surfactant as intermediary agents that facilitate efficient protein extraction through ionic interactions and micelle formation, respectively. These intermediaries enable high extraction efficiency without direct mechanical or thermal harshness, thus preserving protein functionality and reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes controlled pH changes (to isoelectric point for precipitation) and temperature modulation to achieve efficient extraction while maintaining protein integrity. By changing parameters gradually and controllably rather than applying harsh conditions, the process achieves both high efficiency and functional reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The process maintains the native structure of proteins, improving functionalities such as solubility, foaming, and emulsifying capabilities, with a higher protein yield compared to conventional methods.

Implementation Method 1

a salt extraction step using sodium hexametaphosphate (SHMP) in a basic aqueous solution of plant product

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSalt extraction: Solvation

Implementation Method 2

separating the protein solution from the unsolublized plant solids

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCentrifugal separation: Centrifugal Separation

Implementation Method 3

the separating step is by decantation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDecantation: Sedimentation

Implementation Method 4

precipitating protein from the protein solution by lowering pH to produce a plant protein isolate

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectIsoelectric precipitation: Precipitation

Data Source

PatentUS20260015383A1Plant protein isolate and process for production thereof
Publication Date: 2026.01.15 LOUIS DREYFUS CO PLANT PROTEINS LLC
  • US20260015383A1 patent drawing
  • US20260015383A1 patent drawing
  • US20260015383A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure provides an albumin enriched PPI extraction process and albumin enriched PPI produced by the process and use of albumin enriched PPI. The albumin enriched PPI extraction process comprises steps of a) protein extraction from aqueous solution comprising pea flour, b) separation of solids from the aqueous solution, producing a protein-rich liquid fraction, and c) precipitation of protein by use of Na, Ca, or Mg salt or combination thereof, thereby producing an albumin enriched PPI.