Tobacco-derived protein compositions

US9175052B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• R.J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO COMPANY · US

Inventors

• Anthony Richard Gerardi · Winston-Salem, US
• Crystal Dawn Hege Byrd · Lexington, US
• Thaddeus Jude Jackson · Summerfield, US
• Chelsea Allison Betts · Winston-Salem, US
• John-Paul Mua · Advance, US
• Kyle Ford · Carpinteria, US

Key dates

• Filing date: May 17, 2013
• Grant date: Nov 3, 2015
• Expiry date: May 17, 2033

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A23V2002/00
• WIPO field: Food chemistry
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

The disclosure describes methods for the purification of protein-enriched extracts to provide concentrates and isolates and methods for incorporation of such materials into products. The purification methods are adapted for removal of one or more of ash, metal salts, alkaloids, particulates, heavy metals, and other impurities and/or contaminants from extracts, as well as modifying the sensory characteristics (e.g., odor, color, and/or taste characteristics) of extracts. The methods generally include diafiltration, treatment with functionalized resins, and supercritical extraction. A protein composition in the form of a concentrate or isolate is provided, the protein composition including RuBisCO, F2 fraction proteins, or combination thereof extracted from a plant of the Nicotiana species, wherein the protein composition is characterized by one or more of: an ash content of less than about 15% by weight; a nicotine content of less than about 10 μg/g; and a heavy metal content of less than about 60 μg/g.