Glanbia Nutritionals Strength Platform: CreaBev®, OptiATP™, and the Future of Beverage Innovation | Episode #174

On Episode #174 of the PricePlow Podcast, Mike and Ben sit down with Rachel Schreck (Product Strategic Manager) and Brent Petersen (Vice President of Research) from Glanbia Nutritionals to explore the revolutionary Glanbia Nutritionals Strength Platform that's transforming how we think about performance ingredients, especially in beverage applications. This powerhouse team brings decades of expertise to discuss four groundbreaking ingredients that finally solve the stability challenges that have plagued creatine and ATP supplementation in ready-to-drink formats.

Glanbia Nutritionals Strength Platform (OptiATP, CreaBev, Collameta, TruCal) on PricePlow Podcast 174

Rachel Schreck and Brent Petersen from Glanbia Nutritionals reveal the revolutionary Strength Platform featuring CreaBev®, OptiATP™, and beverage-stable innovations on Episode #174 of the PricePlow Podcast.

The conversation dives into the science behind CreaBev® (the first beverage-stable creatine), OptiATP™ (encapsulated PEAK ATP® for energy drinks), Collameta™ (highly bioavailable marine collagen tripeptides), and TruCal® (a balanced bone health mineral complex). From Rachel's journey through food science to Brent's 25 years of dairy protein innovation, this episode reveals how Glanbia's advanced encapsulation technologies are opening entirely new product categories for formulators and brands.

Beyond the technical breakthroughs, we explore real-world applications already hitting the market, including FitAid RX with CreaBev technology, and hear Mike's personal collagen and glycine supplementation journey that led to immediate experiential benefits. This episode showcases how authentic ingredient innovation, combined with transparent partnerships like those with Basic Supplements and GR8 Lifestyle, is driving the next evolution in functional beverages.

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Video: Glanbia Nutritionals Strength Platform Deep Dive

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Detailed Show Notes: Revolutionizing Beverage Stability with Glanbia Nutritionals

  • 0:00 - Introduction to Glanbia Nutritionals Powerhouse Team

    Table of Contents

    Mike and Ben welcome Rachel Schreck and Brent Petersen from Glanbia Nutritionals to discuss the company's innovative Strength Platform that's solving long-standing challenges in beverage formulation. Rachel brings a food science background from Washington State University and four years at Glanbia, including two years focused on bioactives as Product Strategic Manager. Brent contributes 25 years of molecular biology and food science expertise as Vice President of Research, leading a global team across 14 labs spanning from Ireland to Singapore.

    The conversation establishes immediate context around Glanbia's unique position in the industry. Most consumers know Glanbia through their consumer brands like Optimum Nutrition, but Glanbia Nutritionals operates as the B2B ingredient powerhouse that supplies the industry's most successful brands. This behind-the-scenes role has allowed them to develop cutting-edge technologies that solve formulation challenges other companies simply can't address.

    Rachel emphasizes her role on the bioactives team, which focuses on ingredients that create physiological responses in the body - a perfect transition into discussing the four strength-focused ingredients that form the platform. The team's expertise spans from basic dairy proteins to advanced encapsulation technologies, positioning them uniquely to tackle the beverage stability challenges that have plagued performance ingredients for decades.

  • 2:45 - Exploring Bioactives and Global Innovation Infrastructure

    The discussion expands into Glanbia's impressive global research infrastructure, with Brent detailing how his team manages 14 laboratories worldwide. This international network enables comprehensive ingredient development, from initial research through clinical validation to commercial applications. The global reach includes specialized facilities for analytical testing, applications development, and consumer research across diverse markets.

    Bioactives at Glanbia represent ingredients that go beyond basic nutrition to provide measurable physiological benefits. Rachel explains how this category has become increasingly important as consumers demand functional ingredients that deliver real results. The bioactives team works at the intersection of science and practical application, ensuring that innovative ingredients can actually be used in real-world products.

    Brent describes the comprehensive approach his team takes to ingredient development, including clinical research capabilities that allow them to validate efficacy claims. The analytical labs develop specialized testing methods for new ingredients, while the applications teams figure out how to incorporate these innovations into everything from protein bars to beverages. This vertically integrated approach ensures that when Glanbia develops a new ingredient, they've already solved the practical challenges of using it.

  • 6:00 - Innovations in Protein Processing and Extrusion Technologies

    Strength Throughout Life: Glanbia Nutritionals' OptiATP™ and CreaBev® Change the Beverage Game

    Finally! Creatine that stays stable in beverages thanks to Glanbia Nutritionals' CreaBev™ technology. Plus OptiATP® brings actual cellular energy to RTDs -- not just caffeine. Add in Collameta™ marine collagen tripeptides & TruCal® bone minerals = strength from every angle. Read about all four ingredients in Glanbia Nutritionals' Strength Platform

    The convo takes a fascinating turn into protein extrusion technology, where Brent explains how Glanbia has solved the challenge of incorporating protein into traditionally starch-based products like cereals and snacks. This represents a significant technical achievement, as protein behaves very differently from starch when subjected to the high heat and pressure of extrusion processing.

    Standard extrusion processes work well with carbohydrates, which expand predictably when forced through dies under pressure. However, protein molecules tend to denature and create "glue-like" substances that can seize up machinery or fail to expand properly. Brent's team spent five years developing protein processing technologies that allow proteins to survive the extrusion environment while maintaining their functional properties.

    This innovation opens up entirely new product categories, enabling high-protein versions of traditionally carbohydrate-heavy snacks. The technology represents the type of foundational research that Glanbia excels at - solving complex technical challenges that create new market opportunities. While the specific processing details remain proprietary, the breakthrough demonstrates how advanced protein chemistry can transform familiar food categories.

  • 8:30 - The Evolution of Creatine in Beverages: A Decades-Long Challenge

    Brent provides crucial historical context for understanding the significance of CreaBev®, recounting his experiences at the Arnold Classic in the early 2000s when the supplement industry was still relatively unregulated. During this "Wild West" period, numerous companies claimed to offer beverage-stable creatine, but laboratory testing consistently revealed that these products contained little to no actual creatine after processing and storage.

    The fundamental challenge stems from creatine's chemical instability in liquid environments. When exposed to water, especially under acidic conditions or elevated temperatures, creatine rapidly degrades into creatinine - a metabolic waste product with no performance benefits. This degradation accelerates dramatically during the heat treatments required for beverage processing, making stable creatine beverages seemingly impossible.

    CreaBev® vs Standard Creatine Visual Comparison

    See the difference encapsulation makes: Standard creatine crystallizes and falls out of solution after UHT processing (left), while CreaBev® stays smooth and stable (right). Same 5g dose, completely different results.

    Brent recalls how major multinational companies launched creatine beverages in international markets, only to pull them from shelves when stability issues became apparent. The processing requirements for commercial beverages - including heat treatment for microbial safety and extended shelf life - create a perfect storm of conditions that destroy creatine's integrity. This represented one of the supplement industry's most persistent unsolved challenges.

  • 11:30 - CreaBev®: The Stability and Efficacy Breakthrough

    The breakthrough that enabled CreaBev® came through Glanbia's development of sophisticated encapsulation technology that protects creatine monohydrate from degradation without altering its fundamental structure. This isn't about creating a different form of creatine - it's about surrounding standard creatine monohydrate with a protective matrix that shields it from the environmental factors that cause degradation.

    Rachel explains how the encapsulation process addresses multiple stability challenges simultaneously. The protective coating prevents crystallization during processing, which can cause equipment problems and reduce bioavailability. More importantly, it maintains creatine's integrity through the heat treatments required for commercial beverage production, including Ultra High Temperature (UHT) processing and hot-fill operations.

    CreaBev® Bioavailability Study Results

    Less is more: CreaBev® achieves similar plasma creatine levels with 26% less material than standard creatine monohydrate. The enhanced absorption profile suggests the encapsulation technology improves bioavailability along with stability.

    The stability data is impressive: CreaBev® retains 73% of its creatine content after a full year at pH 7.0, and 42% at the more challenging pH 4.5. Even in highly acidic conditions (pH 2.8), 30% of the creatine remains stable after 12 months. These results represent a quantum leap forward in beverage stability, finally making creatine RTDs commercially viable.

    Beyond stability, internal research suggests that CreaBev® may offer superior bioavailability compared to standard creatine monohydrate. In animal studies, CreaBev® achieved similar plasma creatine levels with 26% less actual creatine content, suggesting that the encapsulation technology enhances absorption efficiency! This could allow for more cost-effective formulations while maintaining efficacy, but more research is needed to verify this.

  • 14:45 - Consumer Experience and Product Development Philosophy

    The conversation shifts to the often-overlooked aspect of consumer experience, with Brent noting how CreaBev®'s improved solubility dramatically enhances the user experience compared to standard creatine monohydrate. Traditional creatine's poor solubility creates a "sandy" texture that settles at the bottom of beverages, creating an unpleasant drinking experience that can impact long-term compliance.

    CreaBev®'s enhanced solubility eliminates this issue, creating smooth, pleasant-tasting beverages that consumers actually want to drink repeatedly. Consumer panel testing confirmed that people strongly prefer CreaBev® over standard creatine monohydrate, citing improved taste, texture, and mixability. This seemingly simple improvement can make the difference between a product that gets tried once and one that drives repeat purchases.

    Ben raises an important point about how solubility has long been dismissed as merely a marketing claim, since consumers technically consume the same amount of creatine regardless of whether it dissolves. However, the bioavailability data suggests that improved solubility may actually translate to enhanced absorption and efficacy - turning what seemed like a cosmetic improvement into a functional advantage.

  • 17:30 - OptiATP™: A New Frontier in Energy Drinks

    The discussion transitions to OptiATP™, Glanbia's encapsulated form of Peak ATP® that solves similar stability challenges for adenosine triphosphate in beverage applications. Rachel explains how this collaboration with TSI Group (the company behind Peak ATP®) represents a strategic partnership that combines Glanbia's encapsulation expertise with TSI's extremely well-researched ATP ingredient.

    OptiATP™ Logo

    The challenge with ATP in beverages mirrors that of creatine - the molecule degrades rapidly in liquid environments, especially under acidic conditions. Since ATP is the actual energy currency of cells, supplementing with it directly could provide more immediate energy benefits than indirect approaches like caffeine, which merely blocks tiredness signals. However, the instability issue has prevented ATP from being used in ready-to-drink formats.

    OptiATP's encapsulation technology protects ATP from degradation while maintaining its biological activity. This breakthrough enables the formulation of energy drinks that provide actual cellular energy rather than just stimulant effects. The timing is perfect, as consumers increasingly seek energy sources that don't create jitters or crashes associated with high-caffeine products.

    Rachel notes that this ingredient addresses the growing trend of consumers wanting to reduce caffeine intake while maintaining energy levels. OptiATP™ provides a scientifically-backed alternative that works through fundamental cellular energy production rather than central nervous system stimulation. This represents a paradigm shift in how we think about energy supplementation.

  • 29:45 - Exploring Beverage Applications of Protein Ingredients

    The conversation expands to discuss Glanbia's broader portfolio of beverage-compatible protein ingredients, including acidified whey proteins for clear, high-acid beverages and heat-stable proteins for various processing conditions. Brent explains how these innovations emerged from understanding that different beverage applications require different protein characteristics.

    CreaBev® Long-Term Stability Data

    After a full year at neutral pH, CreaBev® retains 70% of its creatine content while standard creatine completely degrades within days. The encapsulation technology prevents conversion to useless creatinine, keeping your beverage potent.

    Acidified whey protein represents another breakthrough that improves the sensory experience of high-protein beverages. When standard whey protein is added to acidic beverages, it creates astringency and off-flavors that negatively impact consumer acceptance. By pre-acidifying the protein during processing, Glanbia eliminated these issues while maintaining protein functionality.

    The portfolio includes solutions for both clear, high-acid beverages (like fruit-flavored protein waters) and neutral pH beverages (like chocolate and vanilla protein shakes). This comprehensive approach ensures that formulators can find appropriate protein solutions regardless of their specific application requirements. The versatility demonstrates how ingredient innovation can expand market opportunities by solving previously limiting technical challenges.

  • 32:00 - Understanding OptiATP™ Dosage and Claims in Beverages

    Mike raises important questions about OptiATP™ dosing in beverage applications, noting that Peak ATP® studies typically use 400mg doses. Rachel explains that beverage applications often use lower doses (100-200mg) based on the assumption that consumers might consume multiple servings per day or obtain ATP from other sources. This flexible dosing approach allows formulators to balance efficacy with cost considerations.

    The regulatory landscape around ATP claims requires careful navigation, with Glanbia taking a conservative approach that allows customers to make their own determinations about appropriate claims. The company provides general guidance about potential benefits but leaves specific claim substantiation to individual brands. This approach protects both Glanbia and their customers while providing flexibility for different market positioning strategies.

    Beverage formulation with OptiATP™ offers significant advantages over powder applications, including improved stability and consumer convenience. The encapsulation technology has been specifically optimized for liquid environments, ensuring that the ATP remains active throughout the product's shelf life. This reliability is crucial for RTD applications where consumers expect consistent performance.

  • 35:30 - Innovative Beverage Formulations with OptiATP™

    Glanbia's OptiATP™ Blueberry RTD Formula

    This stable ATP beverage concept would deliver 200mg of encapsulated cellular energy in every bottle. This sugar-free, low-calorie drink provides the same ATP your muscles use for power -- now protected from degradation in liquid form.

    This part of the discussion explores various formulation possibilities for OptiATP™, with Rachel outlining several compelling applications. These include gaming and focus beverages that leverage ATP's cognitive benefits, recovery drinks that combine ATP with electrolytes and other recovery nutrients, and pre-workout RTDs that provide cellular energy without excessive stimulants.

    The cognitive benefits of ATP supplementation bring an underexplored opportunity in beverage formulation. Research shows that ATP can support mental clarity and focus, especially during periods of high cognitive demand. This creates opportunities for products targeting gamers, students, and professionals who need sustained mental performance.

    Recovery and hydration applications make particular sense given ATP's role in cellular energy production and its potential synergies with electrolyte replacement. The combination of direct energy supplementation with hydration support could create more effective post-exercise recovery beverages than traditional formulations focused solely on fluid and electrolyte replacement.

  • 39:00 - Stability and Storage of OptiATP™ in Beverages

    Storage stability is a critical factor for any beverage ingredient, and Mike questions how OptiATP™ performs under various temperature conditions. Rachel explains that their stability testing used hot-fill processing followed by ambient temperature storage to simulate worst-case scenarios. The results showed excellent stability over 12 months, with even better performance expected under refrigerated conditions.

    The hot-fill processing capability is particularly important for commercial beverage production, as it represents one of the most challenging environments for ingredient stability. The ability to withstand temperatures of 185-190°F while maintaining activity demonstrates the robustness of the encapsulation technology. This processing compatibility eliminates a major barrier to commercial adoption.

    Temperature resilience extends beyond processing to include storage and transport conditions. The ingredient can withstand temperature fluctuations that might occur during shipping and storage, ensuring consistent performance regardless of supply chain variables. This reliability is essential for building consumer trust in functional beverage products.

  • 42:00 - Introduction to Collameta™: The Future of Collagen

    Collameta™ Logo

    The conversation shifts to Collameta™, Glanbia's marine collagen tripeptide that represents a significant advancement in collagen supplementation. Rachel explains how this ingredient addresses the bioavailability limitations of traditional collagen peptides by providing the smallest functional units of collagen that can be directly absorbed by the body.

    Marine collagen tripeptides offer several advantages over conventional collagen peptides, including higher bioavailability and lower required doses. The tripeptide structure allows for direct absorption into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive breakdown required for larger peptides. This enhanced absorption means that smaller amounts can deliver equivalent or superior benefits compared to traditional collagen supplements.

    The fish skin source provides a sustainable and high-quality raw material that's rich in the specific tripeptides most beneficial for human health. While the marine source does impart some flavor considerations, Rachel notes that the low dosing requirements (500mg-1g versus 10g+ for traditional collagen) make flavor masking much more manageable in formulated products.

  • 45:00 - The Benefits of Tripeptides in Collagen Supplementation

    Collagen tripeptides represent a paradigm shift in how we think about collagen supplementation, moving from a "more is better" approach to a focus on bioavailability and efficacy. Brent explains how tripeptides like Gly-Pro-Hyp are the fundamental building blocks of collagen that can be detected in plasma after oral ingestion, proving their bioavailability.

    Glanbia's Bone & Joint Support Capsule Application

    Combining marine collagen tripeptides with milk minerals, this capsule formulation delivers structural support in just two capsules daily. Each serving packs 1g of easily-absorbed Collameta™ alongside 550mg of TruCal® D50's balanced mineral complex -- targeting both connective tissue and bone health in one convenient dose.

    The mechanism of action differs significantly from traditional collagen peptides. While larger peptides must be broken down by digestive enzymes before absorption, tripeptides can be absorbed directly through specialized transporters in the intestinal wall. This direct absorption pathway explains why lower doses can be more effective than larger amounts of conventional collagen.

    Clinical research has demonstrated that collagen tripeptides can improve skin elasticity, joint comfort, and even cardiovascular health markers. The studies show benefits at much lower doses than traditional collagen supplements, supporting the enhanced bioavailability hypothesis. This efficiency creates opportunities for more cost-effective formulations while maintaining efficacy.

  • 50:00 - Glycine and Its Role in Energy and Recovery

    Mike shares his personal experience with glycine supplementation, describing how switching from magnesium citrate to magnesium glycinate, combined with additional collagen intake, led to noticeable improvements in energy and well-being. This anecdotal experience highlights glycine's often-overlooked role in supporting cellular function and recovery.

    Glycine's sleep benefits are well-documented, with research showing that glycine supplementation can improve sleep quality and reduce sleep latency. Brent explains how better sleep quality naturally translates to improved daytime energy and cognitive function, potentially explaining Mike's positive experience. The connection between glycine, sleep, and energy represents an underappreciated aspect of amino acid supplementation.

    The collagen-glycine connection is relevant since collagen is one of the richest dietary sources of glycine. The tripeptides in Collameta™ contain glycine as a core component, potentially providing similar benefits to direct glycine supplementation while also delivering collagen-specific advantages. This dual functionality makes collagen supplementation more compelling for overall health and wellness.

  • 52:30 - Heavy Metals in Collagen: Addressing Safety Concerns

    Mike raises important questions about heavy metal contamination in collagen supplements, referencing social media discussions about bone-sourced collagen potentially containing higher levels of heavy metals. Rachel clarifies that Collameta™ is sourced from fish skin rather than bones, which should significantly reduce heavy metal exposure risk.

    Bioaccumulation patterns in marine organisms typically concentrate heavy metals in specific tissues, with bones generally showing higher concentrations than soft tissues like skin. However, Brent notes that definitive testing would be required to make specific claims about heavy metal levels. The question highlights the importance of rigorous testing and transparent ingredient sourcing in the supplement industry.

    The safety profile of Collameta™ benefits from both its marine skin source and Glanbia's comprehensive quality control processes. The company's extensive testing capabilities ensure that ingredients meet stringent safety standards before reaching the market. This attention to safety is particularly important given the growing consumer awareness of potential contaminants in supplement ingredients.

  • 53:45 - Innovations in Collagen Supplements and Market Opportunities

    The discussion explores various application possibilities for Collameta™, with Rachel expressing particular enthusiasm for gummy applications that could deliver effective collagen doses in just 1-2 pieces rather than the 6+ gummies typically required with traditional collagen. This dosing efficiency could dramatically improve consumer compliance and product economics.

    Salted Caramel Cold Brew & Peanut Butter Cookie Join Basic Whey Isolate Menu

    Basic Isolate brings two new flavors that are anything but basic. Salted Caramel Cold Brew and Peanut Butter Cookie join the lineup, powered by premium Glanbia Provon WPI. Pure protein without the fluff.

    Gummies are a significant market opportunity, as the current collagen gummy market is hampered by serving size inconvenience. Rachel's vision of effective 1-2 gummy servings addresses a major consumer pain point while potentially reducing manufacturing costs. The improved bioavailability of tripeptides makes this reduced serving size feasible without compromising efficacy.

    Beverage applications for Collameta™ offer additional opportunities, particularly in ready-to-drink formats where the low dose requirements and stability characteristics enable convenient collagen supplementation. The ingredient's compatibility with various pH levels and processing conditions makes it suitable for diverse beverage formulations, from clear waters to protein shakes.

  • 55:15 - The Appeal of Collagen Gummies and Consumer Preferences

    Ben humorously admits his tendency to overconsume gummy supplements, highlighting a common consumer behavior that actually works in favor of Collameta™'s lower dose requirements. The conversation reveals how consumer preferences for gummy formats often conflict with the high doses required by traditional collagen supplements, creating an opportunity for more efficient ingredients.

    FitAid RX

    FitAid RX isn't just any beverage - it's one powered by CreaBev®!

    Consumer compliance represents a crucial factor in supplement effectiveness, with products that are inconvenient to use showing poor long-term adherence. The ability to deliver effective collagen benefits in just 1-2 gummies could dramatically improve consumer satisfaction and repeat purchase rates. This convenience factor often outweighs other product attributes in determining commercial success.

    The commoditization challenge facing the collagen market creates opportunities for differentiated ingredients like Collameta™. With numerous generic collagen products available, brands need compelling differentiation to stand out. The enhanced bioavailability and lower dose requirements provide clear marketing advantages that can justify premium positioning.

  • 57:30 - Exploring Other Applications for Collagen Beyond Supplements

    The conversation expands to discuss alternative delivery formats for collagen, including Brent's suggestion of coating high-protein snacks with Collameta™. The low dose requirements make it feasible to incorporate meaningful amounts of collagen into various food applications without significantly impacting taste, texture, or cost.

    Functional food applications represent a growing market opportunity as consumers increasingly seek health benefits from everyday foods rather than dedicated supplements. The ability to fortify familiar products with effective levels of beneficial ingredients could expand the reach of collagen supplementation beyond traditional supplement users.

    Shot applications offer another compelling format, particularly for consumers who prefer concentrated, quick-consumption products. The combination of Collameta™'s low dose requirements and beverage stability makes it ideal for shot applications that deliver meaningful collagen benefits in convenient, portable formats.

  • 58:30 - The Peptide Trend in Supplements and Marketing Opportunities

    The discussion touches on the growing consumer interest in peptides as a supplement category, with Mike noting how the term "peptide" has gained significant search volume and consumer attention. This trend creates marketing opportunities for legitimately beneficial peptide ingredients like Collameta™, which can leverage consumer interest while delivering scientifically-backed benefits.

    Consumer education becomes crucial as the peptide market expands, with the need to distinguish between scientifically-validated peptides and those with limited evidence. Collameta™'s tripeptide structure and clinical research provide a solid foundation for peptide-focused marketing claims while maintaining scientific integrity.

    The regulatory landscape for peptides continues to evolve, with increasing scrutiny of synthetic peptides while food-derived peptides like collagen tripeptides maintain their GRAS status. This regulatory advantage positions ingredients like Collameta™ favorably for long-term market success.

  • 1:04:00 - Understanding TruCal®: A Comprehensive Calcium Ingredient

    TruCal® is Glanbia's approach to bone health supplementation, providing a balanced mineral complex derived from milk rather than isolated calcium carbonate. Brent explains how this ingredient addresses the growing understanding that bone health requires multiple minerals working synergistically rather than calcium alone.

    TruCal® Logo

    The mineral profile of TruCal® includes calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, sodium, zinc, and iron in ratios similar to natural bone composition. This balanced approach reflects current scientific understanding that calcium alone is insufficient for optimal bone health, with magnesium, phosphorus, and trace minerals playing crucial supporting roles.

    Clinical research comparing TruCal® to calcium carbonate showed superior results in bone health markers, with TruCal® significantly reducing markers of bone breakdown and resorption. The study demonstrated that the balanced mineral approach provides more effective bone support than isolated calcium supplementation, validating the ingredient's scientific rationale.

  • 1:09:00 - The Importance of Mineral Balance in Supplements and Health

    The conversation explores the synergistic relationships between minerals in supporting bone health, with each mineral playing specific roles in bone formation and maintenance. Magnesium activates enzymes needed for calcium utilization, phosphorus provides structural support, and potassium helps maintain calcium retention by the kidneys.

    Deficiency patterns in the modern diet often extend beyond calcium to include inadequate potassium, magnesium, and other trace minerals. Brent notes that potassium deficiency is particularly common in the American diet, making TruCal®'s balanced mineral profile more relevant to actual nutritional needs than isolated calcium supplementation.

    The electrolyte connection becomes particularly relevant for active individuals who lose minerals through sweat. The balanced mineral profile of TruCal® makes it suitable for sports nutrition applications where both bone health and electrolyte replacement are important. This dual functionality creates opportunities for more comprehensive hydration and recovery products.

    Ben raises important points about how mineral needs differ between sedentary individuals and athletes, with active people requiring higher sodium intake to replace sweat losses while sedentary individuals might benefit from increased potassium to balance dietary sodium. TruCal®'s balanced approach provides appropriate mineral ratios for various activity levels.

  • 1:15:00 - Following the Glanbia Team and Future Innovations

    The conversation concludes with information about how to connect with the Glanbia team, with Rachel active on LinkedIn while Brent humorously admits to being "an old man" who doesn't engage with social media despite having a LinkedIn profile. This generational difference highlights how scientific expertise and social media presence don't always align.

    Glanbia Nutritionals Strength Platform (OptiATP, CreaBev, Collameta, TruCal) on PricePlow Podcast 174

    Brent's extensive experience spanning 25 years in the industry, combined with his five children, leaves little time for social media engagement. However, his willingness to share deep technical knowledge on podcasts like this demonstrates how industry veterans can contribute to education and innovation even without active social media presence.

    The Glanbia Nutritionals website and LinkedIn presence (linked below) provide the primary channels for staying updated on new ingredient innovations and research developments. Rachel's active engagement on LinkedIn makes her an excellent resource for formulators and brands interested in incorporating these advanced ingredients into their products.

Where to Follow and Learn More

Conclusion: The Future of Functional Beverages

This comprehensive discussion with Rachel and Brent reveals how Glanbia Nutritionals is solving fundamental challenges that have limited the functional beverage market for decades. The combination of CreaBev®, OptiATP™, Collameta™, and TruCal® represents a new generation of ingredients that finally make previously impossible formulations viable.

FitAid RX with CreaBev

Looking to give CreaBev® a shot? Check out FitAid RX from LifeAid!

The real-world applications already emerging, from FitAid RX with CreaBev® to the innovative formulations in Basic Supplements and GR8 Lifestyle products, demonstrate how these ingredients are transforming the market. The transparency and scientific rigor behind these innovations set new standards for ingredient development and application.

Looking forward, the beverage stability breakthroughs enable entirely new product categories that combine convenience with efficacy. The ability to deliver research-backed ingredients like creatine and ATP in ready-to-drink formats opens up massive market opportunities while providing consumers with more convenient ways to access proven performance benefits.

Thank you to Rachel and Brent for sharing their incredible expertise and innovations that are transforming the functional beverage industry. Their work represents the type of science-driven ingredient development that creates real market opportunities while delivering meaningful benefits to consumers. The combination of technical excellence and practical application makes these ingredients game-changers for the supplement industry.

Subscribe to the PricePlow Podcast for more conversations with industry innovators and ingredient experts who are shaping the future of nutrition!

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About the Author: Mike Roberto

Mike Roberto

Mike Roberto is a research scientist and water sports athlete who founded PricePlow. He is an n=1 diet experimenter with extensive experience in supplementation and dietary modification, whose personal expertise stems from several experiments done on himself while sharing lab tests.

Mike's goal is to bridge the gap between nutritional research scientists and non-academics who seek to better their health in a system that has catastrophically failed the public. Mike is currently experimenting with a low Vitamin A diet.

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