CapLock™ flavors from International Flavors & Fragrances (Dayton, N.J.), dissolve readily in hot or cold water, yet they resist moisture absorption during storage and handling. This results in long shelflife for the flavors. Citrus flavors, which are primarily oil-based and prone to oxidation, can now have a shelflife of 24 months. Savory flavors, like chicken or beef, also demonstrate excellent stability.

“We use a proprietary extrusion technology specially designed for the food industry,” says Mike Popplewell, director, delivery systems, IFF R&D. “It retains more of the top notes because the process doesn't remove water. Also, it produces denser, larger particles than does spray drying, so there is less opportunity for diffusion.” Standard particle size ranges are 250-850 microns for the extruded beverage flavors, compared to 50-100 microns for spray-dried flavors.