Fiberstar's plant-based solutions improve meat alternatives by using Citri-Fi® natural citrus fiber's high water holding and oil binding capabilities. Moreover, these functionalities and the newly created texturized citrus fiber to improve meat-like texture merit Fiberstar to win the 2019 Fi Europe Plant-based Innovation Award.
RIVER FALLS, WI (December 12, 2019)
Fiberstar, Inc., a global market leader in clean label food ingredient solutions for the food and beverage industry won the 2019 Food Ingredient Europe’s plant-based innovation award.
This prestigious award recognizes companies who commercialize new solutions to improve the rapidly growing plant-based foods category. Fiberstar who was one of three finalists achieved this award by introducing new plant-based solutions for meat alternatives using their flagship Citri-Fi natural citrus fiber. Dr. Brock Lundberg presented on citrus fiber’s high water holding and oil binding capabilities. As a result, these functionalities are key to create juicy meat analog products. In addition, the company unveiled a new texturized citrus fiber. Ultimately, this new fiber improves meat-like texture which consumers expect.
“Fiberstar continues to be on the forefront when creating new technologies for meat alternatives.” says John Haen, President and CEO. “We work closely with our customers to share solutions that fit their needs.”
Plant-based Market Needs
Currently, manufacturers are investigating ways to replace methyl cellulose to clean up their food labels. Because these vegan meat patties use various ingredients that easily soften, they tend to have a mushy texture. Meanwhile, adding insoluble fibers can easily generate grainy texture. However, Citri-Fi holds high amounts of water and oil. On the other hand, to eliminate the mushy texture, the new texturized citrus fiber can be used to improve the springy bite. As a result, this natural ingredient can help replace methyl cellulose when used in combination with other natural ingredients.
“This fast-paced category needs innovative companies like Fiberstar to introduce new ingredient technologies into the marketplace,” say Mr. Haen. “Our developments in meat alternatives complements our successes in plant-based milk and other non-dairy foods.”
As a final point, Citri-Fi is non-allergenic and allergen-free. This natural fiber is Non-GMO Project certified. Moreover, this ingredient has no E-number which is key in the European markets. Lastly, Citri-Fi labeling options include citrus fiber, dried citrus pulp or citrus flour. This labeling resonates well in the clean label food markets.
To learn more about the Fi Europe awards CLICK HERE!
Have questions or need a sample, CLICK HERE!
About Fiberstar
Fiberstar, Inc. www.FiberstarIngredients.com is a privately held innovative biotechnology Company focused on enhancing food performance by manufacturing and marketing value-added, plant based food ingredients. Its largest brand, Citri-Fi, is a natural, highly functional citrus fiber sustainably produced. The physical patented process creates the high water holding and clean label emulsification properties. Citri-Fi is GRAS, non-allergenic, non-GMO and has no E-number. This natural fiber line benefits meat, dairy, bakery, dressings, sauces, frozen food, beverages, plant based foods and pet food through textural improvements, nutritional enhancements and/or cost savings. Headquartered in River Falls, Wisconsin with manufacturing in Florida and Wisconsin, Fiberstar sells products globally in over 65 countries.
