Clean Label Plant-based Foods

About

Plant-based food launches exploded over the past few years specifically meat substitutes and dairy alternatives. However, there are many challenges when creating the perfect food product including texture, nutrition and labeling. As a result, some products have received much criticism with their lengthy and unrecognizable label declarations in addition to be being full of E-number ingredients. For instance, consumers not only look for an alternatives to animal meat and dairy proteins, but also an alternative that uses natural ingredients that are perceived to be healthier. CLEAN MEAT SUBSTITUTES Because of these plant-based foods trends, Fiberstar, Inc. launched the Citri-Fi 100 and Citri-Fi TX natural citrus fiber series into this segment. The Citri-Fi 100 series is a citrus fiber that contains high levels of intact pectin. This provides natural emulsification to help bind water and oil in meat substitutes. At low usage levels, 0.3% to 1%, these natural citrus fibers create alternative meat products with ample juiciness and succulence. Citri-Fi TX is a coarser granule that improves texture specifically in meat alternatives. This texturizing fiber, when used between 1% and 4%, creates meat-like texture in alternative meat products. These natural ingredients also work synergistically with other functional ingredients to improve the quality. CONSUMER FRIENDLY DAIRY ALTERNATIVES In dairy alternatives like plant milk, Citri-Fi 100 series at 0.1% to 0.4% can be used to improve the smooth and full body mouthfeel without using gums. Homogenization is key to increase the citrus fiber's surface area further to provide the textural benefits. Citri-Fi 100 series is also key in plant-based desserts such as yogurts. This natural ingredient improves the texture and minimizes syneresis. In plant-based cheeses, Citri-Fi provides emulsification to create smooth and creamy textures. Lastly in plant-based frozen desserts, the Citri-Fi 100 line reduces ice crystal formation and provides stability during freeze/thaw. As a result, the texture is smooth and creamy over shelf-life. Due to Citri-Fi 100 series dual functionality, this natural citrus fiber benefits a variety of food products including beverages, bakery, dressings, dairy, frozen foods, meats and meat and dairy alternatives. Citri-Fi is non-GMO Project Certified, non-allergenic and gluten-free. Labeling options include citrus fiber, dried citrus pulp or citrus flour. Citri-Fi also has no E-number which is ideal for the clean label markets in Europe. This natural ingredient also contributes fiber to the nutritional panel and can be used to improve Nutri-Scores.