Product development of protein drink containing maslinic acid for the elderly

Abstract

Background: The world population is aging rapidly, leading to various health problems such as malnutrition and insufficient protein intake. These issues contribute to reduced muscle mass and a decline in physical function among older adults. The high prevalence of muscle atrophy and oxidative stress-related muscle dysfunction among elderly people highlights the urgent need for effective strategies to promote healthy aging and improve quality of life.

Objective: This research aims to develop a protein drink containing maslinic acid (MA) for the elderly and to investigate its muscle growth-promoting effects using cell line models. The nutritional content was evaluated, and product prototypes were subsequently developed.

Methods: Cricket protein was selected as the main ingredient for the product formulation, combined with inulin, cocoa powder, vitamins, minerals, and commercially available MA, in accordance with Thai Recommended Daily Intake (Thai RDI) guidelines. Standard methods for nutritional value and microbial analysis were applied to evaluate the product. The prototype was designed for consumer appeal and subsequently subjected to sensory evaluation. Cytotoxicity, cytoprotective effects, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation of the developed product were evaluated in C2C12 mouse myoblast cells using MTT and ROS assays at various concentrations.  

Results: The MA-containing protein drink for the elderly was formulated with cricket protein and inulin powder as the main ingredients, with chocolate flavoring added to improve palatability. It contained 58.79% protein, 21.2% carbohydrates from inulin (a dietary fiber and prebiotic), 0.87% total sugar, and 12.7% fat, providing 120 kcal per 23 g serving. Fortified with vitamins and minerals at 30% of Thai RDI per serving, it represents a nutrient-dense option for older adults. Microbiological tests confirmed compliance with Thai FDA safety standards. Sensory evaluation indicated high acceptance compared to the commercial product. The product packaging was designed with attractive colors and clear labeling, providing both appeal and comprehensive product information. Moreover, the developed product (DP) showed no cytotoxicity up to 50 mg/mL and significantly reduced ROS levels in C2C12 cells under oxidative stress. At concentrations of 25 and 50 mg/mL, DP enhanced cell viability and demonstrated strong cytoprotective effects superior to a commercial protein product without MA.

Conclusion: The MA-containing protein drink for the elderly, formulated with cricket protein, inulin, and MA, provides high protein content and essential nutrients with good safety and sensory acceptance. It delivers nutrients relevant to muscle function and digestion with packaging designed for the elderly. In cell studies, the product showed no toxicity up to 50 mg/mL and effectively reduced oxidative stress, enhancing cell viability. Its cytoprotective effects surpassed those of a commercial protein product without MA.

Novelty of the Study: This study introduces a novel protein drink for the elderly, combining cricket protein, MA, and inulin to support muscle function and reduce oxidative stress. It is among the first products aligned with Thai dietary guidelines to integrate these components, demonstrating cytoprotective effects in muscle cell models and offering commercial potential as a functional beverage for aging populations.

Keywords: muscle, maslinic acid, elderly, cell line, protein drink, C2C12