#United States #Des Moines #Proteus #Kemin #Brine Technology

Kemin Industries Unveils Groundbreaking Brine Injection Patent

Kemin Industries, a renowned ingredient manufacturer dedicated to enhancing daily life for over 80% of the global population, recently announced a remarkable advancement in food technology. On March 11, 2025, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) granted Kemin a patent for a unique brine injection process that eliminates the need for phosphates and substantially reduces or completely removes salt. This innovative product falls under Kemin's esteemed Proteus® line.

Kemin's Business Director for North America, Bill Fielding, expressed excitement over this recognition from the USPTO, noting how the patented technology exemplifies Kemin's commitment to addressing the food industry's most pressing challenges. With consumers increasingly demanding clean label ingredient solutions, the ability to offer such options without compromising on yield or functionality is a significant milestone. The Proteus products embody the integration of Kemin's scientific expertise with market needs, promising tangible benefits.

Brines and marinades play a crucial role in the food industry, particularly for products such as beef, pork, poultry, fish, and plant-based proteins. These solutions not only enhance flavor but also help retain moisture during the cooking process. Traditional brines typically rely on salts and phosphates for effective moisture retention, which have come under scrutiny from health-conscious consumers.

The introduction of Proteus clean label functional proteins represents a pivotal shift. These proteins work by expanding the protein structure within muscle meat, revealing binding sites that, until now, were not fully utilized for moisture retention. By achieving this without the use of salt or phosphates, Kemin's Proteus products enable meat and poultry processors to create superior-quality products that align with consumer preferences for healthier choices.

Fielding highlighted the economic advantages of Proteus products, suggesting they could lead to increased yields of nearly 25% along with a 5% or greater increase in throughput. Furthermore, the technology has the potential to lower raw material costs by $0.05 to $0.10 per pound, presenting a significant opportunity for manufacturers navigating demanding market conditions.

The patent outlines how the unique technology employed in Proteus can enhance taste and texture while providing an appealing label to capture consumer interest. In an industry where clarity and transparency are increasingly valued, Kemin's advancement stands out as a compelling option for manufacturers seeking a competitive edge.

Interested parties can learn more about how Kemin's Proteus products can meet diverse industry challenges through their official website.

About Kemin Industries

Kemin Industries is a private, family-owned company that has been transforming the quality of life since its establishment in 1961. With operations across 90 countries, Kemin caters to sectors including human and animal health, pet food, aquaculture, food technologies, and more. With over 500 specialty ingredients, Kemin is committed to using science to solve industry challenges and ensuring the efficacy of food and health-related products for a growing global population. Each day, Kemin works to uphold a standard of quality and safety that its customers can rely on.

For more details or media inquiries, please contact Carrie Livingston, Vice President of Media Relations, at [email protected] or +1 815 519 8302.