Abstract: Disclosed herein are compositions comprising a surfactant and a protein system, where the protein system comprises proteins and stress proteins obtained by the process of fermenting yeast to obtain a fermentation mixture; subjecting the fermentation mixture to stress conditions to obtain a post-fermentation mixture; and centrifuging the post-fermentation mixture and obtaining the supernatant; where the protein mixture retains its functionality under extreme conditions. Also disclosed herein are methods of using the above compositions as enhanced oil recovery agents, cleaning agents or as agents that improve the function of surfactants.