First highly process-stable waxy rice flours developed

RESEARCHERS at Ingredion’s Idea Labs™ have developed a line of HOMECRAFT Create multi-functional rice flours that help food manufacturers respond to consumer demand for smooth, silky textures in clean label and gluten-free products.

Manufacturers will be able to convert to a highly desirable “rice flour” label while at the same time achieving the robust functionality, stability and shelf life previously associated with the use of hydrocolloids, modified starches and other ingredients not considered clean label. The new range of ingredients first will be available to food manufacturers in the United States, Canada and Asia-Pacific following IFT 2017.

Ingredion’s Idea Labs™ in New Jersey, USA

The solution adds to a clean and simple ingredient solutions portfolio that started to develop more than 20 years ago. Ingredion has invested in growing this portfolio as consumer demand for clean and simple labels has grown.

Proprietary research conducted to understand the labeling preferences of consumers in North America and the Asia Pacific region found "rice flour" to be one of the most accepted common ingredients used in the food and beverage industry. Researchers found a significantly higher proportion of U.S. and APAC consumers preferred “rice flour" over other ingredients.

“Ingredion has been a pioneer in the clean label movement and in understanding consumer attitudes and preferences towards specific ingredients and claims,” said Daniel Haley, director of the global Wholesome business at Ingredion. “The exciting development of HOMECRAFT Create multi-functional rice flours, leveraging our recent investments in Asia-Pacific, reflects the continued commitment of researchers working in this area at our global network of Ingredion Idea Labs innovation centers.”

The ingredient first will be introduced in Las Vegas, USA, at the IFT17 Annual Meeting and Food Expo, which runs from June 24-28.

“In Asia, there is a growing demand from consumers for quality food made with familiar, trusted ingredients,” said Hui Cheng Chong, marketing manager of Ingredion’s Wholesome business in the Asia Pacific region. ”Rice flour has been a staple for Asian consumers for centuries. Providing highly functional rice flours with added stability and enhanced texture allows our customers to maintain authenticity in recipe formulation and traditional eating quality across a range of convenience foods.”