Biotechnology and health: the role of recombinant proteins in dietary supplements
January 3, 2025
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Biotechnology drives safer, more effective, and sustainable supplements through the production of recombinant proteins with high purity and functionality.
Biotechnology has become one of the most disruptive tools across industries, and its impact on health and nutrition is increasingly evident.
One of its most remarkable breakthroughs is the production of recombinant proteins applied to dietary supplements, offering safer, more effective, and sustainable products for a growing market.
Recombinant proteins are obtained through genetic engineering techniques that insert specific genes into microorganisms such as bacteria, yeast, or mammalian cells.
These organisms act as biological factories, producing proteins with high levels of purity and consistency—qualities that are difficult to guarantee with traditional animal or plant sources.
Recombinant DNA
Among the most widely used methods are:
Recombinant DNA: Inserting specific genes into a host’s DNA, which then expresses the desired protein.
Specialized expression systems: Depending on the protein, bacteria (like E. coli), yeast (like Saccharomyces cerevisiae), or mammalian cells are used, each optimized for efficiency and quality.
The advantages are clear. Production efficiency allows for large quantities in less time, while purity reduces risks of allergens, toxins, or contaminants often present in animal- or plant-based proteins.
Moreover, biotechnology enables the design of proteins tailored to specific needs: from digestive enzymes that improve nutrient absorption to compounds like lactoferrin, widely used to strengthen the immune system.
From a health perspective, this innovation allows for more personalized supplements. Consumers with food intolerances can access safe, allergen-free proteins, while athletes benefit from formulas engineered to enhance muscle recovery or endurance.
The impact of supplements on health
The impact also extends beyond individual nutrition. Biotechnological production is more sustainable, requiring fewer natural resources than large-scale livestock or plant protein cultivation.
This translates into a significantly lower environmental footprint—a factor increasingly valued by both consumers and regulators.
The convergence of biotechnology and health in the dietary supplement sector highlights how science can meet today’s demands: food safety, personalization, efficiency, and sustainability. By integrating recombinant proteins into product formulations, the industry not only improves quality but also redefines the future of modern nutrition