Rice Protein

Rice Protein Products

Introduction to Rice Protein

Rice protein is a plant-based protein derived from rice. It's made by removing carbohydrates like starch from rice, leaving behind a highly concentrated rice protein isolate.

Some key benefits of brown rice protein powder include:

• Hypoallergenic - less likely to cause allergic reactions
• Easily digested
• Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free

Rice protein can be made from organic brown rice, white rice, or a combination. Brown rice protein contains more nutrients as the bran is left intact.

Zinc

Rice protein is a good source of zinc, an essential mineral that supports immune function, growth, DNA synthesis and other vital processes. Brown rice protein provides higher levels of zinc than white rice protein. Zinc is required for the activity of over 300 enzymes in the human body and plays a role in cell division, immune function, wound healing, production of DNA and proteins, and growth and development during childhood. Vegetarians may need more zinc in their diets as the bioavailability of zinc is lower in plant foods compared to animal foods. Rice protein provides a bioavailable plant-based source of this important mineral.

Rice Protein Powder

Rice protein powder is the most popular form of organic sprouted brown rice protein. It's a fine powder that can be easily added to smoothies, shakes, baked goods and more to boost protein intake.

Compared to other protein powders, rice protein offers these advantages:

• • Hypoallergenic - rice protein contains no common allergens like dairy, gluten, soy or egg so is less likely to cause an allergic reaction
  • Less heavy metals than some plant proteins - rice is grown in water so absorbs fewer heavy metals from the soil compared to plants grown directly in soil
  • Mild flavour - rice protein has a light taste that won't overwhelm other ingredients

However, rice protein has less protein per serving than whey or other animal-based proteins. It also lacks some amino acids, so combining them with other plant proteins like pea protein can create a complete protein profile with all essential amino acids.

Rice protein powder can be an excellent choice for those with allergies or dietary restrictions. It provides an alternative to commonly allergenic proteins like whey and soy protein. The hypoallergenic and easily digested nature of rice protein makes it a good option for sensitive individuals.

Vitamin B6

Rice protein powder is a good vegetarian source of vitamin B6. Vitamin B6 aids in metabolism, brain function, production of hormones and blood cells, and support of the immune system. It also helps convert tryptophan into serotonin, which regulates mood. Adequate vitamin B6 intake can help reduce risk of cardiovascular disease, certain cancers, cognitive decline, and mood disorders. As a plant-based source of this essential vitamin, rice protein powder offers advantages for vegetarians, vegans, and others looking to increase their vitamin B6 intake from natural food sources.

Brown Rice Protein Benefits

Brown rice protein powder retains more nutrients as it uses the whole rice grain. Benefits of brown rice protein include:

• More fibre than white rice protein - the bran contains insoluble fibre while the germ provides soluble fibre
• Higher in magnesium, phosphorus, manganese and other minerals - the bran and germ contain higher mineral levels compared to the endosperm
• Contains antioxidant compounds found in the rice bran - unique antioxidants like gamma-oryzanol provide free radical protection

In addition, organic sprouted brown rice protein takes advantage of the natural enzymes in sprouted brown rice to break down proteins and increase availability of amino acids. The sprouting process helps improve digestibility and nutrient absorption.

Compared to regular brown rice protein, organic sprouted brown rice protein has even higher levels of fibre, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and amino acids. The sprouting process enhances the nutritional profile.

Iron

The bran layer of brown rice gives it higher iron levels than refined white rice protein. Iron carries oxygen, supports energy levels and cognitive function. As a non-heme source of iron, brown rice protein provides an important iron source for vegetarians and vegans who consume little to no heme iron from meat and animal products. The vitamin C content of brown rice protein can also aid in absorption of the non-heme iron it provides.

Vegan Protein Options

Rice protein is ideal for vegans and vegetarians since it contains no animal products. Compared to other vegan protein powder options:

• Pea protein has a more complete amino acid profile - while rice protein is low in lysine, pea protein contains more balanced essential amino acids
• Hemp protein contains omega-3s - the omega-3 ALA content offers anti-inflammatory benefits
• Soy protein has higher protein content per serving - typically around 90% protein by weight compared to 70-80% for rice protein

But rice protein is the least allergenic option. Combining rice protein with pea protein can provide a complete vegan protein source with all essential amino acids. Hemp, soy, and pea proteins all have higher allergy risks.

For lacto-ovo vegetarians who consume dairy and eggs, whey and egg protein powders are also options. But for ethical vegans or those with many allergies, plant-based rice protein is an ideal choice. It provides hypoallergenic, gluten-free and dairy-free nutritional support.

Uses for Rice Protein Powder

Rice protein powder can boost protein in:

• Smoothies - blend with fruit, veggies, nut milk and ice for a nutrient-dense meal replacement
• Protein shakes - mix with non-dairy milk and additional ingredients like cocoa powder or peanut butter
• Pancakes and baked goods - add to batter and doughs to increase protein
• Protein bars and balls - combine with dates, oats, seeds and nuts for homemade bars
• Yogurt - stir into non-dairy yogurt like coconut or almond yogurt
• Oatmeal - sprinkle over oatmeal for a protein punch
• Overnight oats - add into overnight oats along with chia seeds, fruit, milk, etc
• Nice cream - blend with frozen bananas and milk for healthy "ice cream"

Rice protein powder mixes smoothly into liquids and batters. It has a neutral flavour that works well in sweet and savoury recipes. The fine texture blends in seamlessly without grittiness.

Look for a high-quality rice protein powder with no artificial ingredients. Brown rice protein has higher nutrient levels than white rice protein. Organic sprouted brown rice protein is optimal for nutritional benefits.

Special Considerations

Rice protein comes in gluten-free and dairy-free varieties for those with allergies or sensitivities. Verify the production facility is free of cross-contamination for gluten and common allergens.

Hydrolyzed rice protein breaks down the proteins further using enzymes to enhance digestibility and amino acid absorption. This makes it appropriate for those with compromised digestion or high protein needs.

While rice does contain trace arsenic levels, rice protein isolate has been tested safe and contains far less arsenic than the whole grain. Look for rice protein from reputable providers that adhere to safety standards.

Rice protein powder is also lower in potential heavy metal contamination compared to plant proteins from crops grown directly in soil. The water-based growth of rice reduces heavy metal uptake.

FAQ

Q: Does rice protein taste good?

A: Rice protein has a neutral, mild flavour. It can take on the flavour of foods it's added to without overpowering them. Many consumers find it more palatable than stronger-tasting proteins like whey or pea.

Q: Is rice protein complete?

A: Rice protein is low in the amino acid lysine so should be paired with a complementary protein like pea protein to provide all essential amino acids. Combining rice and pea protein creates a complete plant-based protein profile.

Q: How much protein is in rice protein powder?

A: Rice protein powder contains about 70-80% protein by weight. A typical 30g serving provides 20-25g of plant-based protein. Amounts vary slightly between products.

Q: Is brown rice protein better?

A: Yes, brown rice protein retains more nutrients like fibre, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants compared to white rice protein. It has a more balanced nutritional profile.

Q: Should I take a rice protein supplement?

A: Rice protein supplements can help those who struggle to meet protein needs, have dietary restrictions, or want an easily digested hypoallergenic protein source. Work with a dietitian or doctor to determine if supplementation makes sense for your situation.

Rice protein isolate is a highly purified form of rice protein that is over 90% protein by weight. It has an excellent amino acid profile and is easily digested. Rice protein isolate mixes smoothly into shakes and smoothies.

Organic brown rice provides all the benefits of brown rice while being grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. It retains more nutrients compared to regular brown rice.

Sprouting brown rice activates enzymes and increases protein quality and amino acid availability. Sprouted brown rice protein is gentler on digestion.

Pea protein combined with rice protein makes the perfect vegan protein blend. Together they offer a complete essential amino acid profile comparable to whey.

Rice protein is high in sulphur-containing amino acids like cysteine but lower in lysine. Combining rice and pea protein provides a superior vegan protein profile.

This unflavoured rice protein concentrate has a slightly sweet rice flavour and aroma perfect for blending into smoothies or shakes. Add 30g to your favourite recipes for an extra boost of natural plant-based protein.

With 80% high-quality protein per 100g, this rice protein powder supports muscle growth and body composition when combined with exercise. Stir it into pancake batter or protein shakes.

As a gluten-free, vegan protein powder, rice protein is commonly used by vegetarians, vegans, and those with allergies. It provides protein without potential issues.

The smooth, fluffy texture of pea protein perfectly balances the fine, smooth texture of rice protein. Together they create a delicious plant-based protein blend.

Rice protein offers an excellent plant-based protein source with a comparable amino acid profile and protein content vs dairy proteins, without the lactose.

This complete vegan rice and pea protein provides all 9 essential amino acids to support your goals as well as whey protein, but in plant form.