As the trend of opting to become vegan is growing, many companies are deep diving into pea protein that is said to be a complete protein. It has nearly all of the essential amino acids. Pea plants are considered very beneficial for the soil and require no fertilizers. Also, many people and several companies are focusing on the importance of a plant-based protein diet.
The largest producer of Pea in the USA recently observed the largest IPO on wall street. Protein derived from dried yellow peas is organic friendly as well as non-GMO. To reduce dependency on meat, consuming pea protein is a great option. Many manufacturers of pea-based protein products claim that it is the best, but that may not be the case. Also, an expert n this field recently stated that 98% of the amino acids in the pea protein go into the bloodstream. Some of the essential amino acids are present in low quantities in pea whereas soy protein is considered truly complete protein. Producers of pea protein products may have to blend in this amino acid to make it perfect. Professor of nutrition at University of Minnesota states It is deficient in methionine. Nutritionists use PDCAAS scores to analyze the effectiveness of food proteins.
But there is a downside to it as well. On the PDCAAS scale, it considered an above-average protein source. Also, the processing of peas further reduces its protein digestibility. Cooking lowers the bioavailability of proteins, especially of plant-based. Even if a serving mentions, it contains 15 grams of protein, but one may digest only about 10gm if it is highly processed, as the processing of foods affects digestibility. To complete the daily protein requirements, one may have to consume it in large amounts. It is recommended to consume pulses as well which are high in lycine, one of the essential amino acids.
