The Claim

Magnesium chloride-coagulated tofu has a heterogeneous protein network and thicker protein matrix than glucono-δ-lactone-coagulated tofu, and this structural difference is associated with lower protein digestibility and reduced antioxidant release during in vitro digestion.

Source: Effects of Matrix Structure on Protein Digestibility and Antioxidant Property of Different Soybean Curds During In Vitro Digestion.

What the research says

Roughly balanced

Support and challenge are close. The picture may shift as more studies come in.

Supports
6score
Challenges
0score

These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.

How it works
1 study reviewed
In plain English

Tofu made with magnesium chloride has a different protein structure than tofu made with glucono-δ-lactone, and this difference results in less protein being broken down and fewer antioxidants being released during simulated digestion.

See the scientific wording

Magnesium chloride-coagulated tofu has a heterogeneous protein network and thicker protein matrix compared to glucono-δ-lactone-coagulated tofu, which is associated with lower protein digestibility and reduced antioxidant release during in vitro digestion.

Why this might work

When tofu is made with magnesium chloride, the proteins form a dense, uneven network that blocks digestive enzymes from reaching the protein strands. This prevents the enzymes from breaking down the proteins fully and trapping antioxidant compounds inside. When tofu is made with glucono-δ-lactone, the proteins form a loose, even network that lets enzymes move through easily, break down the proteins, and release the trapped antioxidants.

Verified mechanismbased on 1 study

What the research says

1 study
  1. Study: Effects of Matrix Structure on Protein Digestibility and Antioxidant Property of Different Soybean Curds During In Vitro Digestion.

    Tofu made with magnesium chloride is denser and more uneven inside, making it harder for your body to break down and get the healthy antioxidants out. Tofu made with GDL is smoother and looser, so your body can digest it better and get more antioxidants.

Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies

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