T. Hasegawa Introduces Dairy-Free Flavour Technology Mimicking Real Milk

T. Hasegawa USA has unveiled a new dairy-free flavour solution called Hasemilk, aimed at helping food and beverage manufacturers replicate the authentic taste, aroma, and mouthfeel of real milk, without using dairy ingredients. This new product was launched in response to the increasing demand for lactose-free and dairy-alternative products, addressing consumer concerns about taste and texture in non-dairy offerings.

The California-based flavour manufacturer developed Hasemilk as a powdered flavour technology that mimics both external and internal flavour characteristics found in milk fat. The product is versatile for use across various applications, including protein beverages, bakery products, desserts, and savoury formulations.

Mark Webster, vice president of sales and marketing at T. Hasegawa USA, highlighted that taste and texture remain significant barriers to the adoption of dairy alternatives. He cited Mintel research indicating that while consumers aged 18 to 54 are open to dairy-free products, skepticism persists about whether these alternatives can deliver the same satisfaction as traditional dairy.

Hasemilk was designed to overcome persistent formulation challenges in dairy-free products, such as off-notes, bitterness, and lack of creaminess in protein-based and plant-derived applications. Webster emphasized that Hasemilk offers manufacturers more flexibility to enhance dairy flavour and improve taste performance without compromising consumer expectations.

The product is available in fresh whole milk, whole milk powder, and skim milk powder flavour profiles. It complies with FDA natural flavour guidelines and is positioned as vegan, dairy-free, non-allergen, kosher, non-GMO, and Proposition 65 compliant. This dry format presents an advantage for manufacturers seeking greater flexibility in formulation, transportation, and supply chain management.

Hasemilk emerged from T. Hasegawa’s multi-year “Bridge to Tokyo” initiative, a development program connecting the company's U.S. operations with its global R&D headquarters in Japan. Founded over a century ago, T. Hasegawa specializes in custom flavours and fragrances for global food and beverage brands and has recently expanded its focus towards functional flavour systems and clean-label innovation.