Alfalfa Protein Concentrate: A Novel Plant-Based Protein Source

In recent years, the pet food industry has been increasingly concerned with issues such as, “How can we reduce costs without compromising nutritional value or palatability?” and “How can we advance decarbonization when it is so difficult to find a highly nutritious alternative to meat?”

To address these challenges, an innovative plant-based ingredient developed by an overseas ingredient manufacturer has been attracting attention: alfalfa protein concentrate.

What Is Alfalfa Protein Concentrate?

Alfalfa protein concentrate is a plant-based protein ingredient extracted and concentrated from harvested alfalfa leaves. It has the following characteristics:

An Excellent Match for Meat-Based Recipes

Alfalfa protein concentrate can be easily incorporated into meat-based recipes simply by mixing it in, offering the following advantages:

Nutritional Composition (Dry Matter Basis)

Nutrient	Alfalfa Protein Concentrate	Regular Alfalfa
Crude Protein	50%+	17.5%
Crude Fat	12%	4.5%
Omega-3 (ALA)	6%	2.3%
Omega-6 (LA)	2.5%	0.9%
Crude Fiber	7.5%	2.6%
Ash	10%	3.5%

Compared with regular alfalfa, alfalfa protein concentrate offers significantly improved nutritional value. In particular, its crude protein content exceeds 50%, making it a far more efficient protein source than regular alfalfa at 17.5%.

It is also rich in fat, containing 6% omega-3 fatty acids (ALA) and 2.5% omega-6 fatty acids (LA), which may help support anti-inflammatory benefits as well as skin and coat health.

Its fiber content is also relatively high at 7.5%, helping support digestive health. Meanwhile, the ash content is 10%, indicating that it also contains abundant minerals.

Comparison With Animal Proteins

Alfalfa protein concentrate has been shown to offer an excellent balance of protein and fat even when compared with animal protein ingredients such as beef heart, lamb liver, and deboned poultry. In other words, despite being a plant-based protein, it has functionality similar to that of animal proteins.

Rich in Highly Functional Nutrients

Beta-Carotene and Lutein

Carotenoids are naturally occurring plant pigments that are considered important nutrients for dogs and cats. Representative examples include lutein and beta-carotene, both of which have strong antioxidant properties and help protect the body from cellular aging and oxidative stress.

Lutein in particular is found in high concentrations in the macula of the eye and helps maintain retinal health, thereby contributing to the prevention of vision decline. Beta-carotene, meanwhile, is converted into vitamin A in the body and helps support immune function as well as the health of the skin and mucous membranes.

These carotenoids are also expected to be beneficial for senior pets experiencing age-related vision decline or weakened immunity, and regular intake may help maintain vitality.

Rich in Omega Fatty Acids

Omega fatty acids are essential fatty acids that play an important role in maintaining the health of dogs and cats, especially omega-3 and omega-6, which help support the skin, joints, and coat.

Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and may help relieve joint stiffness and inflammation. This can be particularly beneficial for senior dogs and highly active breeds.

They also help maintain skin moisture, which may reduce dryness, itching, and dandruff, while also promoting a glossy, smooth coat. In addition, omega fatty acids are structural components of cell membranes and contribute to the proper functioning of the immune system.

Unmatched Levels of Vitamin K

Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin and an essential nutrient for maintaining the health of dogs and cats. Its primary role is in blood clotting, helping the body stop bleeding when injury occurs.

Vitamin K also contributes to bone health by supporting the incorporation of calcium into bones, helping maintain bone density and reduce the risk of fractures. It is therefore especially important for growing young animals and senior pets.

In recent years, vitamin K has also gained attention for its potential role in preventing vascular calcification, suggesting possible benefits for cardiovascular health as well.

Applicable to a Wide Range of Pet Food Products

Alfalfa protein concentrate can be used in a variety of pet food products, including:

Actual examples include wet food recipes containing 10% alfalfa protein concentrate in beef, pumpkin, and brown rice formulations, as well as kibble and treats formulated with 4%.

A Highly Palatable Plant-Based Protein

Type	Cats	Dogs
Alfalfa Protein Concentrate added at 4.5%	Yes	Yes
Alfalfa Protein Concentrate added at 2.4%	Yes	N/A
No Alfalfa Protein Concentrate	N/A	Yes

The above results were obtained through palatability trials conducted in collaboration with a university recognized as an authority in the field of nutrition.

In other words, alfalfa protein concentrate has been shown to be a plant-based protein that both dogs and cats can eat without hesitation or discomfort.