Understanding Hexane Content in Pea Protein Powders
As Pea protein powders have surged in popularity among health enthusiasts and those seeking plant-based alternatives to animal proteins so have the concerns regarding the use of hexane in the production process of some pea protein powders. So what is hexane? How is it used in pea protein powder production, and what are the implications for consumer health? Let's dig in.
What is Hexane?
Hexane is a hydrocarbon solvent commonly found in gasoline. It's a colourless, flammable liquid with a mild, gasoline-like odour. Beyond its uses in industrial cleaning and degreasing, hexane has found a place in the food industry, particularly in extracting oils and proteins from plant materials. Its effectiveness in isolating proteins from plant sources has made it a popular choice in producing various food items, including pea protein powders.
Hexane in Pea Protein Powder Production
In the production of pea protein powder, hexane is often used to separate protein from peas. The process involves using hexane to dissolve and extract the protein, which is then separated and purified. While this method is efficient, it raises questions about hexane residue in the final product. Notably, there are alternative protein extraction methods, such as water-based or mechanical processes, which do not involve hexane but may be less efficient or more costly.
Potential Health Concerns
The primary concern with hexane is the potential for residual solvents in the final product. While hexane evaporates during processing, trace amounts can remain. The long-term health effects of consuming hexane residues are not fully understood, but exposure to high levels of hexane is known to cause neurological damage in industrial settings. However, the levels of hexane in food products are typically much lower than those associated with such health risks.