Performance Fuel whey protein blend
Over the years, particularly as protein bars, cookies, and other snacks have risen in popularity, customers always want to know if it is okay to bake with protein.
Firstly, most protein ’snacks’ are not actually baked. When protein is subjected to high temperatures, it begins to break down. This denatured protein is less potent and less effective. To avoid damaging protein content, most companies that produce protein bars use ‘cold processing,’ which allows protein to be added to the product without degrading the protein quality. (This is the same process we use when we manufacture our own PF Brand 100% Whey Protein). If you do wish to bake with protein, therefore, you must begin with at least double the amount of protein you would like as an end result in whatever it is you are making.
Protein naturally absorbs liquid, so adding it to baked goods will also dry them out. The minute protein is combined with liquid, the denaturing process begins. This is why we recommend you do not make a shake and then leave it sitting in the fridge all day. You should aim to drink a shake within 15 minutes of its creation.
Adding protein to products makes them more filling. You’ll find that you can eat only a small percentage of a regular serving size before feeling too full to take another bite. I can remember when Met-Rx first came out with their protein pasta; my stomach couldn’t handle more than a handful of bites!
Despite all these negative aspects to cooking with protein, there are some instances in which it might be helpful. If you have children, for example, you can add protein powder to their pancakes and they will be none the wiser! This is also an option for athletes looking to boost their protein intake at all meals possible. Pancakes cook quickly, so the powder will not be subjected to high heat for an extended period of time; the lower levels that remain after heating will be enough to enrich the protein content of this favorite breakfast food.
It makes sense, from a quality and cost stand point, not to waste protein in baked goods. If you want to add protein to your breakfast, put it on top of cereal or oatmeal (remembering, again, that you will need extra liquid to prevent dry out). Better yet, skip the hassle altogether and keep it simple: drink a protein shake with your meal or snack. If you wanted to up the health-quality on your morning muffin, don’t do so by baking protein into it. Just grab a shake and drink it while you eat your muffin! It will save you lots of time and effort and taste delicious!
Want to add protein to your coffee? No Problem…Make it an iced latte or, even better, add some ice and concoct your own protein frappucino! There are plenty of fun things to do with protein powder that will allow it to remain at its highest quality—You just have to be creative!
One last note regarding protein damage: since heat forces protein to break down, do not leave protein powder in your car or outside. Do not leave it somewhere humid, as the moisture will also jumpstart this harmful process. Always store your protein in a cool, dry place!
