Solution derived from the hydrolysis of a protein into its component amino acids and peptides
Hydrolyzed protein is a solution derived from the
hydrolysis of a protein into its component
amino acids and peptides. While many means of achieving this exist, most common is prolonged heating with
hydrochloric acid,[1] sometimes with an
enzyme such as
pancreaticprotease to simulate the naturally occurring hydrolytic process.
Protein hydrolysis can be used to modify the allergenic properties of
infant formula. Reducing the size of cow milk proteins in the formula makes it more suitable for consumption by babies suffering from
milk protein intolerance. The US FDA has approved a label for this usage of partially-hydrolyzed proteins in 2017,[8] but a
meta-analysis published the same year shows insufficient evidence for this use.[9]
Hydrolyzed protein is also used in certain specially formulated hypoallergenic pet foods, notably
dog foods for dogs and puppies that
suffer from allergies caused by certain protein types in standard commercial dog food brands. The protein contents of the foods are split into peptides which reduces the likelihood for an animal's immune system recognizing an allergic threat. Hydrolyzed protein diets for cats are often recommended for
felines with food allergies and certain types of digestive issues.[10]