What Are Specialty Proteins?
Specialty proteins are functional protein ingredients used across a wide range of food and beverage applications. With growing consumer demand for plant-based, non-GMO, and allergen-friendly formulations, specialty proteins have become essential in product development. Popular protein sources include pea, soy, and sunflower, which are available in various forms, such as isolates, concentrates, crisps, nuggets, and fiber blends.
On this page, you'll discover Gillco’s full lineup of specialty protein offerings, key benefits for formulation, and application opportunities across food categories from meat alternatives to bakery and beverages.
Our Specialty Protein Offerings
- Pea Protein (PISANE® pea protein isolates, concentrates, and crisps)
- Soy Protein (isolates, concentrates, extruded nuggets, structured vegetable proteins)
- Functional Protein Systems (ALPHA®, SUPRO® MAX)
- Textured Soy Protein (RESPONSE® Crumbles, Flakes, Granules)
Applications for Specialty Proteins
Meat Alternatives
Gillco’s soy and pea protein systems are optimized for meat analogues, offering meat-like fibrosity and texture. Textured soy crumbles and SUPRO® MAX chunks support whole-muscle mimicry in plant-based patties, strips, and nuggets.
Nutrition Bars & Snacks
Protein isolates and crisps deliver texture and functional protein enrichment for bars and snacks. Cold-extruded blends, such as PISANE® B9 pea protein, provide excellent processing and low water absorption for cereal and snack applications.
Dairy Alternatives
PISANE® pea protein offers excellent emulsification and heat stability in non-dairy yogurts, desserts, and beverages. These solutions provide creaminess and nutritional value without common allergens.
Sauces, Spreads, and Bakery
Proteins like PISANE® M9 pea protein enhance emulsification and shelf-life stability in sauces, dressings, and pâtés. In bakery applications, soy and pea protein can replace flour or eggs while improving nutritional profiles.
Benefits of Specialty Proteins
Gillco’s specialty proteins offer a wide range of functional, nutritional, and economic benefits. Many of our plant-based proteins are non-GMO, allergen-free, and highly digestible, making them ideal for clean-label formulations.
Functional advantages include improved emulsification, water binding, heat and pH stability, and viscosity control. From cost-effective formulations to enhanced taste and texture, our proteins serve critical roles in both health-focused and performance-based product development.
PISANE® Pea Protein
PISANE® pea protein is a premium pea protein isolate from COSUCRA, known for its clean taste, excellent digestibility (98%), and a well-balanced essential amino acid profile (AAS 0.96). A proprietary production process yields very low levels of anti-nutritional factors, and the protein is free from common allergens, including gluten, soy, and dairy.
PISANE® pea protein is ideal for a wide range of applications, including plant-based beverages, smoothies, dairy alternatives (such as yogurts, cheeses, and desserts), and high-protein bakery products. It also performs exceptionally well in cold-extruded bars and snacks, offering benefits like creaminess, heat stability, and emulsifying properties in finished formulations.
RESPONSE® Textured Soy Protein
The RESPONSE® line includes textured soy proteins available in crumbles, flakes, and granules designed to replicate the texture and appearance of ground or shredded meat. With protein content up to 71% (dry basis), these ingredients are a powerful option for plant-based meat alternatives.
When hydrated, RESPONSE® soy proteins provide an open, fibrous texture with a clean, neutral flavor profile. They’re well-suited for applications such as burgers, meatballs, nuggets, ready meals, soups, and sauces. Available in a range of particle sizes and colors, these products offer excellent formulation flexibility across various product formats.
SUPRO® MAX Structured Vegetable Protein
SUPRO® MAX structured vegetable proteins combine soy protein with hydrocolloids to deliver a firm, meat-like bite after hydration. These systems were developed to mimic the texture and appearance of whole muscle cuts such as chunks, strips, or shreds, making them ideal for meat-free versions of chicken, beef, or seafood.
Highly versatile, SUPRO® MAX ingredients work in patties, sausages, and shredded or chunk-style meat alternatives. With protein levels around 58–71%, they contribute a fibrous texture, clean flavor, and formulation flexibility. Available in multiple sizes and shapes, they help manufacturers create authentic, satisfying plant-based products.
Partner With Gillco for Your Specialty Protein Needs
Gillco is a trusted supplier of high-quality specialty proteins sourced from leading global manufacturers. We combine technical expertise with customer-focused service to support innovation across categories. Whether you're developing plant-based meats, non-dairy beverages, or functional snacks, our team can guide you to the best protein solution.
With a wide range of formats, functionality, and nutritional targets, Gillco is here to help you meet formulation goals and consumer expectations. Contact us today for specialty protein solutions.