Plant-based functional beverages and sarcopenia: Nutritional potential, technological challenges, and future directions
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Appendix. Supplementary Material
Published Version
Date
2026-05-17
Authors
Appicciutoli, Diego
Sahin, Aylin W.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Elsevier B.V.
Published Version
Abstract
With the global population continuing to age, the prevalence of age-related conditions such as poor muscle health and related sarcopenia is growing. Sarcopenia, the gradual loss of muscle mass and strength associated with aging, has recently become a major public health concern. Traditional interventions rely heavily on animal-based protein, even though there is growing interest in plant-based alternatives. Hence, questions about the feasibility, nutritional effectiveness, and environmental impact of plant-based proteins for muscle health in older adults rise. This review evaluates the potential of plant-based beverages in managing sarcopenia, focusing on the nutritional adequacy of plant proteins and their techno-functional suitability for product development. The narrative and bibliometric analyses indicate that, although animal-derived proteins still dominate sarcopenia management, advances in food technology and changing consumer preferences are opening promising opportunities for plant-based functional products to support healthy aging. Nevertheless, important gaps remain in understanding the nutritional needs of older individuals, especially regarding plant proteins. Future research should address: (1) protein intake guidelines tailored to older adults, covering both dose and protein source for counteracting sarcopenia; (2) exploit the use of processing innovations that enhance digestibility and bioavailability, solubility, and sensory quality of plant proteins; (3) the lack of sex-specific investigations, particularly in postmenopausal women, who are disproportionately affected by sarcopenia; and (4) the need for integrated, evidence-based work that translates current knowledge into practical and cost-effective interventions for sarcopenia management.
Description
Keywords
Bibliometric , Muscle-health , Nutrition , Plant protein , Sarcopenia , Sustainability , [FoodNutritionalSciences]
Citation
Appicciutoli, D & Sahin, A W 2026, 'Plant-based functional beverages and sarcopenia: Nutritional potential, technological challenges, and future directions', Food Hydrocolloids for Health, vol. 9, 100288, pp. 1-16. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fhfh.2026.100288