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Highly effective moisture barrier, remarkably resistant to bacterial attack, ideal to extend the shelf life of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole and shelled nuts, and raw protein.
About
Zein is a plant protein isolated from corn. This water-insoluble protein is one of the best understood biomacromolecules and classified as GRAS by the US Food and Drug Administration. It is unique in its ability to form odorless, tasteless, clear, hard and almost invisible edible coating. Zein, a highly effective moisture barrier, is widely used in the food and pharma/nutraceutical industries for coating and encapsulation. Zein is remarkably resistant to bacterial attack, making it the ideal coating to extend the shelf life of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole and shelled nuts, and raw protein. Zein may be cast or sprayed into a film which can be used to create biodegradable/edible plastics for products such as drinking straws, food containers, and bags. Due to its inherent hydrophobicity and biodegradability, Zein nanoparticles have been successfully applied as a carrier for controlled release of hydrophobic drugs and as a biomaterial for the development of colloidal delivery systems. Zein can be combined with many different ingredients to create a wide range of coating properties and colors. Common Applications: Extended Shelf Life: Meets the the Department of Defense’s shelf life specification for nuts and dried fruit; 3 years at 80º F. Encapsulation: Provides a protective surface against loss of internal moisture and edible fats and the external effects of oxygen and microbes. Taste Barrier: Unpleasant tasting ingredients can be encapsulated with Zein. Flavors can also be blended into Zein. Time Release: Coats powders, sweeteners and flavors for time release preparations. Enteric Coating: Protects active ingredients from attack by stomach acids. Adhesive: Although fast drying, freshly applied Zein has tackiness, allowing for the introduction of flavors, additives, and inclusions. Industrial: Proven effective in a variety of industrial applications, including: turbine blade repair, paper coating, inks, and biodegradable packaging for food and beverages.
Key Benefits
Vegan, all-natural corn protein Classified as GRAS food ingredient by the US-FDA Clean label USP monograph tested GMO-free Ⓤ Kosher, Halal compliant Lactose-free, Gluten-free No contaminants Renewable, Biodegradable Vegan alternative to shellac Extends shelf life Superior coating and encapsulation properties vs. alternatives Preserves flavor, freshness and color Inhibits dehydration Natural adhesive Vehicle to add active ingredients, flavor and/or color Serves as a moisture, oxygen and microbial barrier Inhibits insect infestation Cost effective
Applications
Food & Confectionery: glaze, encapsulation, shelf life extender, adhesive, gluten replacement Agriculture: moisture/oxygen barrier, antimicrobial, shelf life extender, reduces freezer burn, protects roots & seeds Pharma/Nutraceutical: excipient, time release, enteric coating, encapsulation, taste masking Biomedical: controlled delivery, nanoencapsulation, tissue engineering, DNA barcoding Packaging: antimicrobial wrap, bioplastics, grease resistant paper coating, biodegradable packaging Personal Care: moisture control, encapsulation, bulking or anti-clumping agent, anchoring humectant