Wheat protein
What is Wheat protein?
Wheat protein is a group of proteins found in wheat, primarily gluten. It is extracted from wheat flour by washing away the starch. It is a key component of gluten, responsible for the elastic and cohesive properties of dough.
Is Wheat protein vegan?
Wheat protein is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Wheat protein gluten-free?
Wheat protein contains gluten, which is derived from wheat.
What is Wheat protein used for?
Manufacturers add wheat protein to improve texture, elasticity, and moisture retention in baked goods like bread and pastries.
Is Wheat protein safe?
Wheat protein itself is not a regulated food additive in the UK.
Why it's used
Manufacturers add wheat protein to improve texture, elasticity, and moisture retention in baked goods like bread and pastries. It is also used as a meat substitute in vegetarian and vegan products, and to enhance the protein content of foods such as cereals and sports nutrition bars.
Health notes
Wheat protein itself is not a regulated food additive in the UK. However, it is the source of gluten, which is one of the 14 major allergens requiring declaration on food labels. For individuals with coeliac disease or non-coeliac gluten sensitivity, wheat protein must be avoided. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has evaluated gluten in relation to coeliac disease, and the World Health Organization (WHO) and International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) have classified gluten as not classifiable as to its carcinogenicity to humans.
Allergen info
Wheat protein contains gluten, which is derived from wheat. Gluten is one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.
Foods that contain Wheat protein
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