Health Effects of Sustainable Future Proteins

In the current study the investigators aim to assess the nutritional quality and bio-functional activity of two alternative protein sources bovine plasma and corn and from the benchmark protein whey. The study is a double blind, randomised, cross-over, short-term trial in which 36 healthy study subjects will receive three protein interventions of 1 week with a washout period of 1 week between interventions. Study subjects will visit the research facility before and after the intervention period on two separate occasions to measure gut permeability via a multi-sugar test and to collect fasting blood samples and blood pressure outcomes. Faecal and saliva samples before and after each intervention will be collected. A subgroup of 12 study participants will also be subjected to a postprandial digestibility test on the first day of the interventions. The main study parameter is to assess the protein digestion kinetics and protection of the epithelial barrier. Secondary study parameters include other markers of gastrointestinal health, metabolic health, vascular health and satiating properties.