Protein Digestibility Service with AltaBioscience
Protein digestibility is an important factor in human nutrition. It helps determine how effectively dietary proteins are broken down into the absorbable amino acids which are crucial for supporting bodily functions, growth, tissue repair, and overall health.
AltaBioscience’s protein digestibility service combines a static in-vitro digestion model with accurate amino acid quantitation. The in-vitro digestion model is based on the internationally recognised INFOGEST protocol, a standardised method that replicates the human gastrointestinal tract.
How We Simulate Human Digestion
From the mouth to the small intestine, it mimics how the human body breaks down proteins in food, incorporating the three main phases of digestion:
- Oral Phase: Initial enzymatic breakdown reflecting the action of chewing and salivary enzymes on food.
- Gastric Phase: Simulating stomach acidity and gastric enzymes.
- Intestinal Phase: Nutrient release and absorption potential.
Sample Collection and Analysis
Samples are collected at each stage, with the final intestinal-phase samples analysed using our ISO 17025:2017-accredited amino acid analysis service, ensuring reliable and accurate results. The analysis includes the undigested fraction and the amino acid rich supernatant, providing information such as:
- The degree of protein hydrolysis into free amino acids and small peptides available for absorption.
- Quantitative amino acid profiles, indicating the amounts released during digestion.
- Protein digestibility scores, such as in vitro digestible indispensable amino acid score (DIAAS), which estimate the nutritional quality of the protein based on the digestibility of essential amino acids.
This approach delivers a scientifically robust, ethically sound model that predicts digestibility of proteins in food. It offers valuable insights for product developers across the food industry, including those working on alternative proteins, to design formulations with improved nutritional quality and performance.
For more information about our protein digestibility service or to discuss your project, please contact us.
Why Work With Us
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