INCI: Hydrolyzed Oat Protein
CAS: 151661-87-9
Raw Material: Whole Oats
Uses: It is made from modified oat protein that enhances the moisturizing and hydrating properties of skincare formulations while also improving skin feel. This ingredient is highly beneficial for hair and skin products due to its moisturizing, strengthening, volumizing, and smoothing properties. (1)
Source and Sustainability: Hydrolyzed oat protein is a natural, renewable source derived from whole oats. It eliminates the need for non-renewable petroleum in cosmetic products. However, it is essential to note that hydrolyzed oat protein is not a natural ingredient and has undergone processing to enhance its functionality and performance. Although derived from oats, it is only partially natural as its structure has been modified. (1)
Production Process: Hydrolyzed oat protein is produced by breaking down oat protein into smaller molecules using enzymes or acids. (2,3)
This facilitates dissolution in water and is advantageous for cosmetic products. (2) The breakdown of oat proteins into smaller peptides also increases their biological activity, making them more effective in penetrating the skin and hair. (2)
Role of Enzymes: Enzymes are crucial in hydrolysis. For instance, α-amylase and beta-glucanase solubilize the starch and reduce viscosity during heat treatment. Additionally, a protease can be added to improve oat protein solubility, thereby increasing the final product's yield and protein content. Enzymes for starch and non-starch polysaccharide hydrolysis can be obtained from various suppliers. (4)
Environmental Impact: The environmental impact of these enzymes or acids used in the production process depends on factors such as their source, production method, and end-of-life management. It’s important to note that the use of enzymes in industrial processes is generally considered environmentally friendly because they are biodegradable. However, “The production process for this protein is gentle on the environment” is only partially true.
It does not account for all the steps involved in the production process, which may require energy, water, chemicals, and waste management, potentially resulting in adverse environmental impacts. The environmental impact may depend on factors such as the source and quality of the oats, the types and amounts of enzymes or acids used, and the efficiency and safety of the production facilities. (5,6)
Oat Cultivation: Oats often obtain water from the soil, reducing the need for irrigation. The cultivation of oats typically requires fewer synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions and chemical runoff into water systems. The environmental impact of oat cultivation is generally lower than that of many other crops due to their ability to grow in diverse terrains, their lower requirement for synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, and their natural water efficiency. (9)
Like all agricultural practices, oat cultivation can still have negative environmental impacts. These can include soil erosion, nutrient runoff, and the potential for pesticide contamination of water sources. It’s important to note that the sustainability of oat cultivation can vary depending on specific farming practices, including irrigation, fertilizer types and amounts, and pest control methods.
1 - https://www.humblebeeandme.com/project/hydrolyzed-oat-protein/
2 - https://www.lovedbycurls.com/ingredients/hydrolyzed-oat-protein-for-hair/
3 - https://www.altmeyers.org/en/allergology/oat-extracts-overview-135055
4 - https://biosolutions.novozymes.com/sites/default/files/file_download/AS_Oat-based_beverage.pdf
5 - https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00217-020-03661-2
6 - https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/322850028.pdf
9 - https://overherd.uk/blogs/herd-press/oat-milk-environmental-impact