How Is Protein Extracted From Brown Rice?

Brown rice protein is gaining popularity around the world and is often combined with pea protein extract to make it more robust. Plant-based proteins are a wonderful non-bloating option to up our energy levels and reduce fatigue.

Protein extraction from brown rice involves several steps to isolate and concentrate the protein content. The process begins with milling the brown rice to remove the outer husk and bran layers. This results in the production of brown rice flour, which is then mixed with water to form a slurry. The slurry is then subjected to a series of separation techniques to separate the protein from the other components of the rice flour.

The Two Key Methods

One common method used for protein extraction is called wet fractionation. In this method, the slurry is first adjusted to a specific pH level to facilitate protein solubility. Enzymes or acids may be added to further aid in protein extraction. The slurry is then centrifuged or filtered to separate the liquid fraction, which contains the protein, from the solid fraction. The liquid fraction is then subjected to further purification steps to remove any impurities and concentrate the protein.

Another method for protein extraction from brown rice is called dry fractionation. In this method, the brown rice flour is first mixed with water to form a dough. The dough is then kneaded and washed to remove the starch component, leaving behind a protein-rich residue. The residue is then dried and ground into a fine powder, which can be further processed to obtain a purified protein isolate.

What makes brown rice protein nutritious?

Brown rice protein contains antioxidants that can help protect the body from oxidative stress. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of free radicals and the body's ability to neutralize them. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to various health problems, including chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer. Antioxidants help neutralise these free radicals, reducing their harmful effects.

The specific antioxidants found in brown rice protein include phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and vitamin E. Phenolic compounds are known for their antioxidant properties and can help scavenge free radicals. Flavonoids are a diverse group of antioxidants that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that protects cell membranes from oxidative damage.

Brown rice + Pea Protein combos are superfoods?

Combining brown rice protein with pea protein can be a great way to enhance the nutritional profile of plant-based protein powders. Brown rice protein is derived from the protein-rich outer layer of brown rice grains, while pea protein is extracted from yellow peas. Both proteins are considered complete proteins, meaning they contain all the essential amino acids our bodies need. By combining these two protein sources, you can create a protein powder that offers a more balanced amino acid profile and a wider range of nutrients.

Brown rice protein is known for its high content of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) such as leucine, isoleucine, and valine. These amino acids play a crucial role in muscle protein synthesis and recovery. On the other hand, pea protein is rich in lysine, an essential amino acid that is often limited in plant-based protein sources. By combining brown rice protein and pea protein, you can create a protein powder that provides a more comprehensive amino acid profile, promoting muscle growth and repair.