Within the complex range of ingredients used in the food industry, the food thickener stands out as a fundamental tool for improving quality and the culinary experience. As its name suggests, this essential component is used to add consistency, improve texture, and ensure stability to a wide variety of foods. In this article, we will explore what a food thickener is and its crucial role in the food industry.
What is a food thickener and for what is it used?
As the name suggests, a food thickener is a substance used to add consistency and improve the texture and stability of foods. It can be found in various forms, such as powders, gels, or liquids, and is used in a variety of products, for example, to add body-to-liquid preparations, making them thicker and creamier. In addition, thickeners can also help to prevent the separation of ingredients, which is why in the food industry they are used in products such as soups, sauces, desserts, and even baked goods and meat products, such as hams, pâtés, and vegetarian meat analogs.
What is a natural food thickener?
A natural food thickener is a thickener obtained from natural sources, such as plants, seaweed, or seeds. One of the most prominent examples is pea starch, obtained from this versatile and nutritious legume. Pea starch not only acts as an excellent thickener but also provides additional nutritional benefits such as protein and fiber.
How is food thickener used in food?
In business, pea starch is highly valued for its ability to act as a thickener and gelling agent, making it an indispensable ingredient in the production of a wide range of food and industrial products. Some of its main uses in the B2B market are highlighted below:
| GLUTEN-FREE alternative in the kitchen |
Pea starch has gained popularity as a gluten-free alternative in industrial cooking. Its ability to provide texture and thickness makes it a highly effective substitute for those seeking to meet the demands of gluten-free diets in large-scale food products. |
| Improving TEXTURE in baked products |
Pea starch is widely used as a food thickener in baked goods. From breads to biscuits, this ingredient contributes to the softness, fluffiness and overall quality, meeting consumers’ exacting standards. |
| STABILISER in processed foods |
Pea starch plays a crucial role as a stabiliser in large-scale processed food production. Whether in soups, sauces or packaged products, its ability to maintain consistency, improve texture and extend shelf life is invaluable to food companies looking to offer consistent, quality products to their consumers. |
In conclusion, food thickeners are a key pillar in the food industry, ensuring the quality, texture, and stability of a wide range of culinary products. With natural ingredients such as pea starch leading the way towards healthier and more sustainable alternatives, the future of food thickeners looks bright in the culinary world and beyond. Contact us to find out more about this natural ingredient and improve your products in a healthy way for consumers.
