Fats have a multifaceted functionality affecting nutrition, flavor and palatability, texture, shelf-life extension, lubrication, volume/bulk, satiety, and heat transfer. To date, there still is no single “silver bullet” replacement for fat in any food application. Instead, there are customized replacers. And in many formulations, these replacers perform “double-duty” as emulsifiers.
The acceleration of successful launches of healthy products is driving a demand for healthier fats and oils. Specialty oils and fats are an important beneficiary of this growing trend.
Notable efforts at producing plant-derived meat substitutes and analogs abound. And sports and energy food and beverage designers tapped into the value of protein for active bodies years ago. Further, with a major shift under way to reduce reliance on meat as a primary daily source of protein, ingredient technologists are engaged in providing high-value, technologically advanced protein alternatives.
Nuts long have been considered part of a healthy diet, and they certainly are among the most popular snack ingredients around. But what if you can’t have them?
Today, practically everything—from nuggets to vegetables to wings—is breaded, battered, and glazed. Such treatments can add additional color, flavor, and texture and, sometimes, even add a boost in nutrition or extended shelflife.
Nature created oil and water specifically so they would not mix, then peppered the food supply with a whole range of other ingredients to help the two mix well
Technology is helping food companies create efficient emulsifiers—among the most critical aspects in the formation of successful emulsion-based food and beverage products.
Aging is inevitable; the CDC projects of 70-75 million Americans in the 65+ age range by 2030—meaning roughly one fifth of the US populace is currently primed for healthy aging and enhanced quality of life.