Introduction
Pea milk is a popular dairy-free alternative made from yellow peas. It is a nutritious and environmentally-friendly option for those who are lactose intolerant or choose to follow a plant-based diet. In this report, we will explore the process of how pea milk is made, from harvesting yellow peas to producing smooth dairy-free drinks.
Harvesting Yellow Peas
Yellow Peas Cultivation
Yellow peas are typically grown in regions with cooler climates, such as Canada, the United States, and Europe. They are planted in the spring and harvested in the late summer or early fall. Yellow peas are a rich source of protein and fiber, making them an ideal ingredient for plant-based milk alternatives.
Harvesting Process
Once the yellow peas are fully matured, they are harvested using specialized equipment such as combine harvesters. The peas are then transported to processing facilities where they will undergo cleaning, sorting, and soaking before being used to make pea milk.
Processing Yellow Peas
Cleaning and Sorting
The harvested yellow peas are first cleaned to remove any dirt, debris, or foreign objects. They are then sorted to separate any damaged or discolored peas from the rest of the batch. This ensures that only high-quality peas are used in the production of pea milk.
Soaking
After cleaning and sorting, the yellow peas are soaked in water to soften them. This process helps to break down the starches and proteins in the peas, making them easier to blend and extract nutrients from during the milk-making process.
Extracting Pea Protein
Grinding and Blending
The soaked yellow peas are ground into a fine paste using industrial-grade equipment. This paste is then blended with water to create a smooth mixture. The grinding and blending process helps to release the proteins and nutrients from the peas, which will be used to make pea milk.
Separating Solids and Liquids
The blended mixture is then passed through a filtration system to separate the solids from the liquids. This process helps to extract the pea protein and other nutrients from the mixture, leaving behind a smooth liquid that will become the base for pea milk.
Creating Pea Milk
Fortification and Flavoring
Once the pea protein has been extracted, it is fortified with vitamins and minerals to enhance its nutritional value. Flavorings such as vanilla, chocolate, or unsweetened options can also be added to create different varieties of pea milk to cater to different consumer preferences.
Packaging and Distribution
The final pea milk product is then packaged in cartons or bottles and prepared for distribution to retail stores, supermarkets, and online retailers. Companies like Ripple Foods, Bolthouse Farms, and Silk offer a range of pea milk products that are available for purchase in the market.
Industry Insights
Market Trends
The demand for plant-based milk alternatives, including pea milk, has been steadily increasing in recent years. Consumers are becoming more health-conscious and environmentally aware, leading to a rise in the popularity of dairy-free options like pea milk.
Financial Data
According to a report by Grand View Research, the global plant-based milk market was valued at $16.3 billion in 2020 and is projected to reach $38.7 billion by 2028, with pea milk being one of the key contributors to this growth. Companies in the plant-based milk industry are investing in research and development to innovate new products and expand their market presence.
Conclusion
In conclusion, pea milk is a nutritious and sustainable alternative to dairy milk, made from yellow peas through a series of processing steps. With the increasing demand for plant-based milk alternatives, the pea milk industry is expected to continue growing and innovating to meet the needs of consumers looking for healthy and environmentally-friendly options. Companies like Ripple Foods and Silk are leading the way in producing high-quality pea milk products that are widely available in the market.
