Uses of Caseins and Caseinates

i. Rennet Casein

Rennet casein is a product different from acid casein. In industry it is used principally in the production of artificial substances in the plastic category. Casein polymerized with formalin is known as galalith, and synthetic fibers of casein are known as lanital.In spite of the large supply of various plastics, which compete directly with galalith,there is still some demand for galalith production. Small quantities of edible rennet casein are also used as a raw material for processed cheese. Rennet casein is insoluble in water.

ii. Acid Casein

Acid casein dominates the world markets it is used in the chemical industry as an additive in paper manufacture for the glazing of paper of fine quality. For paper industry applications, it is particularly important that the casein is free from fat and contains no particles of foreign or burnt matter that might make spots on the paper.To obtain extremely low fat content in skim milk it should be passed through a micro filtration plant (MF) in combination with pasteurization. Each industry has its own strict quality specifications. The paint and cosmetic industries are also large users of casein. It also has industrial uses in the manufacture of glue.Edible casein is used as water absorbing nutrient protein for enriching some baby foods and diets for diabetics with milk protein, in certain pasta products and types of bread, as addition to some sausage as well as in the production of condiments for soups.

iii. Caseinates

Sodium caseinate is the most commonly used water-soluble form of casein and used in the food industry. The two main reasons for using sodium caseinate as an ingredient in foods are its functional properties and nutritive value. Sodium caseinate is valued for its ability to emulsify fat in the production of modified dairy products such as coffee whiteners, whipped cream and ice cream. It also possesses very good water binding and whipping properties. Industries of meat processing, baking and modified dairy products are the largest consumer of sodium caseinate. The various food products in which sodium caseinate is used consist of various kinds of sausages, meat based and milk based instant breakfasts, non dairy creams, desserts, sauces, soups, bread, crackers, dietetic products and various protein enriched products.

For certain applications, calcium caseinate may be chosen instead of sodium caseinate.One reason being the wish to reduce the sodium content of the product to a minimum.

iv. Composition of Caseinates

The quality standards for sodium caseinate vary from country to country. The typical composition of sodium and calcium caseinate, produced from well-washed acid casein, is shown in Table

Typical composition of caseinates: