A look at products and services for food product developers
BENEO used the ISM Sweets & Snacks trade fair in Cologne, Germany, to sample toffees with its functional carbohydrate, Palatinose. Palatinose replaces more than 30% of the high glycemic sugars contained in a standard toffee recipe, supporting a lower blood glucose response. “Traditionally toffees conjure up pure indulgence and nostalgia but at the same time a relatively unhealthy image for consumers,” said Thomas Schmidt, BENEO marketing director. “However, the new toffees with Palatinose … preserve the traditionally creamy-sweet taste and the pleasant bite and mouthfeel of their traditional counterparts but have a significantly better nutritional profile, with a lower blood glucose response. This is BENEO’s answer to growing consumers interest in ‘better carbs’ and their wish to balance blood sugar levels while enjoying an indulgent treat.” Palatinose (isomaltulose) is derived from sugar beet and has similar technological properties as sucrose. The functional carbohydrate is fully, yet slowly released, and provides glucose in a sustained manner. This ensures that blood sugar levels stay balanced.