Sunflower Protein Concentrate · Plant Protein for Bakery, Snacks, Cereals & Meat Alternatives
Sunflower protein concentrate is a plant-based protein ingredient produced from sunflower seed meal after oil extraction, offering a sustainable protein option for food manufacturers. It is used for protein fortification and functional performance in bakery and snacks, cereals and bars, meat alternatives and selected nutrition applications. Depending on grade and processing, sunflower protein concentrate can contribute water binding, emulsification and texture, while enabling an “allergen-friendly” positioning compared to some major allergens (final labeling depends on local regulations and allergen rules). Atlas Global Trading Co. supplies sunflower protein concentrate with COA, technical documentation and reliable global logistics.
Sunflower protein concentrate can be used alone or blended with other proteins (pea, faba, soy, wheat gluten) and functional systems (hydrocolloids, emulsifiers, flavors) to optimize texture and sensory. Explore the full Proteins & Plant Proteins portfolio or browse our Product Index (A–Z) for complementary ingredients.
Sunflower protein concentrate from sunflower meal for clean-label protein enrichment
Sunflower protein concentrate is produced by processing de-oiled sunflower meal to increase protein content while reducing fiber and other fractions. The resulting powder is used to improve protein content, texture and water holding in a range of products. Like other plant proteins, its behavior depends on particle size, heat history, pH and formulation matrix—so selecting the right grade and validating performance in pilot trials are important steps in successful product development.
Key characteristics
- Source: sunflower (Helianthus annuus) seed meal after oil extraction.
- Form: powder (color from beige to grey-brown, grade dependent; “light” grades may be available).
- Protein content: typically in the concentrate range (often ~45–65% on dry basis; specification dependent).
- Functional properties (grade dependent):
- Water binding: supports moisture retention and yield in bakery and savory systems.
- Texture: contributes body and structure in meat alternative blends and extruded products.
- Emulsification: helps stabilize fat and water phases in some formulations.
- Viscosity contribution: can increase viscosity in batters and fillings depending on particle size and fiber level.
- Sensory profile: mild nutty/seed notes; bitterness or astringency can occur in some grades—flavor masking and grade selection are important.
- Dietary: plant-based; suitable for vegan/vegetarian products.
- Allergen & labeling:
- Allergen status varies by market; confirm allergen declarations and cross-contact statements for each grade.
- Sunflower is sometimes positioned as an alternative to soy/dairy allergens, but final labeling must follow local rules.
Atlas supports customers in selecting sunflower protein concentrate grades optimized for bakery, snacks, cereals and meat alternative performance, aligned with processing conditions and market requirements.
Indicative specification points
Specifications vary by producer and application. Typical parameters include:
- Protein: minimum % on dry basis (as specified).
- Moisture: controlled for stability and flowability.
- Ash / minerals: defined range (affects taste and ionic strength).
- Fat: low to moderate depending on grade and residual oil.
- Fiber: defined range; influences texture, water binding and color.
- Particle size: controlled for blending, hydration and processing behavior.
- Microbiological criteria: controlled to meet food ingredient standards.
- Allergen declarations / cross-contact: provided per producer and facility controls.
- Non-GMO statements: available for selected supply chains (project dependent).
Each batch is supplied with a Certificate of Analysis (COA) and technical data sheet. Additional documents (allergen statements, GMO status, dietary suitability, origin, Halal/Kosher where applicable) can be provided depending on grade and producer.
Applications in bakery, snacks, cereals, meat alternatives and nutrition blends
Sunflower protein concentrate is used where protein enrichment and functional performance are needed with cost-effective plant protein sourcing. Performance depends on hydration, pH/salt conditions and processing (mixing, extrusion, baking). Below are common application areas and formulation tips.
Bakery & baked goods
- Breads, buns and flatbreads: increases protein content; may influence dough water absorption and handling.
- Cookies, crackers and baked snacks: supports protein claims; may affect color and texture depending on inclusion rate.
- Fillings and batters: contributes viscosity and water binding; adjust hydration and stabilizer system as needed.
Snacks, cereals & bars
- Protein-enriched cereals and granola: adds plant protein and texture.
- Nutrition bars and bites: helps improve protein content; requires flavor balancing and moisture control.
Plant-based meat & savory systems
- Meat alternatives: supports structure and water holding in blended protein systems.
- Extruded products: used in some extrusion recipes; grade selection matters for expansion and bite.
Nutrition blends & dry premixes
- Protein blends: combined with pea, faba or rice proteins to balance amino acid profile and sensory.
- Meal replacement powders: supports protein and mouthfeel; dispersibility and flavor masking are key.
Formulation guidance
- Hydration: sunflower proteins can increase water absorption—optimize dough/batter hydration and mixing.
- Color impact: some grades are darker; select “light” grades or adjust recipe expectations where needed.
- Sensory: manage bitterness/astringency with grade choice, processing and flavor systems.
- Protein blends: combine with other proteins to optimize texture, amino acid profile and cost.
- Process compatibility: validate under your shear/heat processes (baking/extrusion) to avoid dryness or excessive firmness.
Source sunflower protein concentrate for your product line
Atlas can supply sunflower protein concentrate and support system solutions with other plant proteins, hydrocolloids, emulsifiers and flavor systems. Share your application (bakery/snacks/cereals/meat alternatives/nutrition), target protein level and process conditions—our team will propose suitable grades and documentation.
Discuss sunflower protein concentrateQuality, documentation & global logistics for sunflower protein concentrate
Atlas Global Trading Co. works with qualified plant protein producers and manages documentation and global logistics from Ankara, Türkiye, serving bakery, snack, cereal and plant-based customers worldwide.
Quality & documentation
- Supplied as food-grade sunflower protein concentrate per agreed protein content, color, particle size and microbiological limits.
- Each batch delivered with a Certificate of Analysis (COA) and technical data sheet.
- Documentation can include allergen declarations, GMO status, origin, contaminants/heavy metals statements and dietary suitability (grade/market dependent).
- Production sites typically operate under recognized food safety systems such as HACCP and FSSC/ISO 22000 (producer dependent).
- Customers remain responsible for finished-product compliance, labeling and claims in destination markets.
Packaging, storage & logistics
- Packaging options: multiwall bags with liners, cartons or big bags (producer dependent).
- Store in a cool, dry, odor-free area away from moisture and direct sunlight. Reseal opened packs promptly.
- Use FIFO inventory management and protect from pests and strong odors.
- Shipments can be arranged under FOB, CFR, CIF or other agreed Incoterms, with export/customs and quality documentation coordinated from Ankara.
To receive a tailored offer, please share your application (bakery/snacks/cereals/meat alternatives/nutrition), target protein level, process conditions (baking/extrusion), annual volume, preferred packaging and documentation requirements (COA, allergen statement, non-GMO, Halal/Kosher where applicable) and destination markets. Our team will recommend suitable grades for your formulation.