Pre-gelatinized starches are starches that have been processed to undergo gelatinization, a process in which the starch granules swell and burst, resulting in a thickened, gel-like consistency when mixed with water at lower temperatures. The functions of pre-gelatinized starches include:
1.Thickening and Stabilization: Pre-gelatinized starches thicken and stabilize food products by absorbing water and forming a viscous gel. They enhance the texture, consistency, and mouthfeel of soups, sauces, gravies, puddings, and other liquid-based foods.
2.Instant Thickening: Since pre-gelatinized starches have already undergone gelatinization, they thicken foods instantly when mixed with cold or hot liquids, without the need for heating and cooking. This property is particularly advantageous in convenience foods and instant mixes.
3.Cold Water Solubility: Pre-gelatinized starches readily dissolve in cold water, making them suitable for use in applications where heating is not desired or feasible. They are used in cold desserts, salad dressings, beverage bases, and other products requiring thickening without cooking.
4.Freeze-Thaw Stability: Pre-gelatinized starches exhibit good freeze-thaw stability, maintaining their thickening properties even after freezing and subsequent thawing. This property is beneficial in frozen foods, such as ice creams and frozen desserts, where texture stability is essential.
5.Binder and Adhesive: Pre-gelatinized starches act as binders and adhesives in food processing, helping to hold ingredients together in formulations such as meat products, batters, and coatings.