How Is Pea Protein Manufactured?

Pea protein is extracted from yellow pea

The pea is a member of the food legume family and historically was first cultivated as a protein-rich crop primarily in west Asia and North Africa. 

Pea protein is extracted from golden or yellow pea (Pisum sativum). It is mostly produced from plants cultivated in the USA, Canada and Europe. Golden pea crops from Northern European countries such as France and Belgium are known to be of the best quality.

Extraction process of pea protein

Pea protein is obtained through a gentle water-based isolation process without the use of chemical solvent. It includes dry and liquid phases. First, during a dry process, the outer shell of the pea (essentially consisting of insoluble fibres), is removed by mechanical action.

After grinding and milling, a flour retaining soluble fibres, starches and proteins, vitamins and minerals is obtained. Being water-soluble, pea proteins are therefore easily separated from fibre and starch by wet filtration and centrifugation.

The next stage of the process is to precipitate the protein to its isoelectric point. It is then finally dry sprayed. The end product is a fine white powder of purified protein that can be used in human nutrition: pea protein isolate.

Pea protein isolate is the final product of pea protein extraction from golden peas. It’s a highly concentrated protein substance with exceptional digestibility (98%). It is the main ingredient of our pea protein blends. It is also interesting to note that most of the carbohydrates are removed in manufacturing pea protein isolates.

The better the quality of the protein isolate, the higher the protein content. Measured on dry matter, Go Good’s pea protein isolate has a protein content of about 85 to 90%, which makes it one of the best in the world. It does not impact the colour, taste or texture of products and is commonly used as a meat replacement and alternative protein source in many foods.

Properties of pea protein isolate

Recent studies regarding pea protein functionalities have revealed unique properties compared to soybean protein isolates.

Pea protein is first used for its high protein content, good digestibility and well-balanced aminogram which covers 95% of the daily needs in essential amino acids of an adult. Pea protein isolate is also both gluten-free and exhibits low incidents of allergen which makes it interesting for the nutrition, particularly for child nutrition, elderly, food without lactose, veganism, etc.

The lysine content of pea protein helps with the building of muscle protein and which is required for growth and bone development.

Moreover, good solubility, outstanding dispersion in water and easy mixing, the fluidity of powder... are all features of pea protein. With very little taste or smell, pea protein isolate is used is an amazing plant-based alternative to whey or soy protein to include in your protein shakes, smoothies and baking recipes.

Go Good uses Pisane pea protein isolate made by Cosucra, in Warcoing, Belgium. This private company has been in business since the early 1850s and producing plant protein isolate for more than 30 years. All of the yellow pea used for its Pisane pea protein is obtained from within 250km of the factory site. Stringent European farming and transforming laws ensure that the highest standards are upheld.

Go Good Pea Protein Powder

Go Good mix the isolate with only a minimal number of ingredients, all 100% natural: organic raw cacao or organic vanilla bean, natural flavour, thaumatin (a natural sweetener extracted from the Katemfe fruit) and sunflower lecithin.

The quality of our pea protein powder is also reflected by what you won’t find in it. Our blends gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free and lactose-free. They contain no emulsifiers, no gums, no added sugar, no fillers or preservatives. Absolutely nothing your body doesn’t need.

Nutrition Facts about pea protein

Nutrition facts can vary between brands, but — for example — one 30-gram serving of Go Good Organic Vanilla Pea Protein Powder contains:

• Calories: 118
• Protein: 22.7 grams
• Carbs: 1.7 gram
• Total fat: 2.1 grams
• Sodium: 39.9 mg