Deconstructing the Quest Protein Pizza
Quest Protein Pizzas differentiate themselves from conventional frozen pizzas by focusing on a low-carb, high-protein structure, particularly in the crust. The aim is to provide a nutritional profile that aligns with keto, low-carb, or high-protein diets.
The High-Protein, Flourless Crust
The crust is the primary element that sets Quest Pizza apart, utilizing a proprietary flourless blend instead of wheat flour. Key ingredients include milk and whey protein isolates, providing the protein base. Cellulose and soluble corn fiber are added for bulk and dietary fiber, contributing to lower net carbs. Vegetable oil (canola or sunflower), xanthan gum, yeast, and leavening agents complete the crust's composition, giving it structure and texture. This formulation makes the crust both high in protein and gluten-free.
Cheese and Sauce Ingredients
The sauce is a simple tomato paste base with water, garlic and onion powders, sea salt, and various herbs and spices, containing no added sugar. The cheese blend varies by pizza type; for example, the 4-Cheese pizza features mozzarella, provolone, pecorino romano, and fontina. {Link: QFC website https://www.qfc.com/p/quest-supreme-thin-crust-frozen-pizza/0088884900718} Toppings vary by pizza type, with options like pepperoni, sausage, peppers, onions, and olives depending on the flavor. Quest Pizza provides a high-protein, low-carb, gluten-free alternative to traditional frozen pizza. {Link: QFC website https://www.qfc.com/p/quest-supreme-thin-crust-frozen-pizza/0088884900718}
Conclusion
Quest Protein Pizza replaces the traditional flour crust with a blend of dairy proteins and fiber, offering a high-protein, low-carb, gluten-free option. With standard cheeses, sauces, and toppings, it provides a familiar pizza experience while aligning with specific dietary goals. Understanding the protein isolates and fiber in the crust is key to appreciating this alternative to conventional frozen pizza.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Quest Protein Pizza gluten-free? Yes, the flourless crust means it contains no gluten-containing ingredients.
- How does Quest Pizza get so much protein? The high protein comes mainly from the milk and whey protein isolates in the crust.
- What is the crust made of? It's made from water, cellulose, milk protein isolate, whey protein isolate, soluble corn fiber, vegetable oil, and stabilizers.
- Is Quest Protein Pizza keto-friendly? Yes, its low net carb count (5-7g per serving) makes it suitable for a keto diet.
- Are there artificial ingredients in the pizza? While aiming for cleaner ingredients, the pizzas include some processed components, like naturally occurring nitrates in the pepperoni from celery powder.
- Why does Quest Pizza have so much fiber? The crust contains cellulose and soluble corn fiber, which significantly increases fiber and lowers net carbs.
- How do the different flavors vary in ingredients? Flavors differ in toppings, while the crust and sauce remain consistent. For example, the Supreme includes multiple meats and vegetables.
