Exploring High Moisture Extrusion in Plant-Based Product Manufacturing
In the rapidly evolving landscape of plant-based products, advancements in manufacturing technologies play a crucial role in meeting consumer demands for sustainability and nutrition. One such innovation making waves is high moisture extrusion, a method revolutionizing how plant-based foods are created. Let’s delve deeper into this technique and its implications for the industry.
How does high moisture extrusion work?
High moisture extrusion (HME) is an advances process that turns plant-based ingredients into various textures foods, imitating the taste and fells of meat and dairy. Unlike traditional methods needing less moisture, HME uses much more water in the mix.
- Ingredient Blending:The process begins with blending plant-based proteins, starches, fibers, and oils with water to form a slurry.
- Extrusion:This slurry is then subjected to high temperatures and pressures within an extruder machine. The unique aspect of HME lies in its ability to cook the mixture under conditions where the water content remains high, thus preserving the natural texture and nutritional properties of the ingredients.
- Shearing and Heating: During extrusion, the mix undergoes shearing and heating together, aligning proteins and starches to create a meat-like fibrous structure.
- Texture Customization:By adjusting factors like temperature and pressure, manufacturers can customize the texture and feel of the final product.
- Final Product:The result is a range of plant-based meats, cheeses, and other alternatives that appeal not only to vegans and vegetarians but also to health-conscious consumers seeking sustainable food options. High moisture extrusion not only imitates the taste and texture of animal-based products but also enhances nutritional profiles by incorporating whole plant ingredients rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.”
At Alimentos Sanygran, we have developed a variety of formats, including different cuts and flavors, to provide our customers with alternatives to both meat and fish. Thanks to the adjustable parameters in this technology, we can produce a wide variety of cuts and textures. This allows us to offer an extensive range of products.
 Chunks |
 Pulled meat |
 Strands |
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 Strips |
 Cubes |
 Shavings |
What temperature is high moisture extrusion?
Temperature control is crucial in high moisture extrusion to achieve the right texture and properties. Typically, the temperature ranges from 100°C to 180°C (212°F to 356°F), depending on the recipe.
At these temperatures, proteins and starches in the plant-based mix change, forming a fibrous structure that gives plant-based meats their chewy texture. This process mirrors the juiciness of animal-derived products.
Precise temperature management also ensures food safety by pasteurizing the product during extrusion, removing harmful microorganisms while keeping it fresh. Advanced extrusion machines maintain ideal temperatures throughout.
In conclusion, high moisture extrusion is a major advance in plant-based foods, meeting the growing demand for sustainable alternatives. As this technology evolves, it promises to reshape the food industry by offering healthier and eco-friendly choices.
