Fiberstar, Inc. recently launched Citri-Fi TX citrus fiber used to improve meat alternatives. This new meat alternative ingredient improves texture and cold binding in meat-free food products like patties. During this launch, a flood of questions poured in about this new technology. Many manufacturers are searching for new meat alternative ingredients such as vegetable proteins, methyl cellulose replacers, binders and texturants. At the same time, this new Citri-Fi TX citrus fiber provides a few of these desired benefits. Check out the top frequently asked questions (FAQ) about Citri-Fi TX citrus fiber.

1.  What is the NEW Citri-Fi TX Citrus Fiber?

This new texturizing citrus fiber provides a few key benefits including meat-like texture, cold binding and clean label. For instance, the larger particle size lends itself to bind more water than gluten and other binders. As a result, it serves as a way to prevent the meat-free patty from turning soft and mushy during cooking. Also, it absorbs water through processing, storage and cooking. And the larger particle size adds a more meat-like texture with particulates similar to that of ground beef.

Citri-Fi TX is non-allergen, therefore it is a natural choice when replacing gluten in meat alternative formulations. Also, this natural citrus fiber is Non-GMO Project certified.

2.  What Functional Benefits Does Citri-Fi TX Citrus Fiber Provide?

As mentioned previously, Citri-Fi TX provides a few key benefits that other meat alternative ingredients lack. For instance, this citrus fiber creates cold binding benefits. This is essential in creating meatless patties that maintain shape and form without falling apart. In addition to cold binding, Citri-Fi TX also contributes to the meat-like texture to simulate an animal meat eating experience. Many vegetarian meats suffer from mushy and soft texture. However, this citrus fiber's large particle size and water binding capacity supplements the base texture to give it a meatier bite. Citri-Fi TX binds more water than other binders like gluten. As a result, this citrus fiber can replace gluten especially in formulations that are requiring allergen-free ingredients.

3.  How is Citri-Fi TX Citrus Fiber Different Than Other Citri-Fi Products?

The key differences between Citri-Fi TX from the other Citri-Fi products are particle size, water holding and protein binding power. Citri-Fi TX is a larger particle size citrus fiber which helps create that meatier texture similar to that of ground beef. Citri-Fi TX binds significantly more water than gluten or other binders. As a result, it serves a way to prevent the meat-free patties from getting soft and mushy during the cooking process. Since this citrus fiber has binding power, it absorbs water throughout processing, storage and cooking. Thus, less gelling, binding and water absorbing ingredients are needed. Usage level ranges between 0.4% to 4%.

The other Citri-Fi products provide water holding too. However, their composition and particle size lends them to creating excellent emulsions. These citrus fibers bind water and oil to keep meat-free patties stable over time. Also, these products create juicy and succulent texture that consumers expect. Usage level ranges between 0.5% to 2%.

4.  What Stability Benefits Does Citri-Fi TX Citrus Fiber Provide in Meat Alternatives? 

Citri-Fi TX is heat, pH and freeze/thaw stable. Salt content does not affect Citri-Fi's functionality in meat alternatives. And as long as there is moisture in the patty, the binding will not break down over time.

5.  What is Citri-Fi TX Citrus Fiber's Labeling? 

Citri-Fi TX's labeling options include Citrus Fiber, Dried Citrus Pulp or Citrus Flour. As a result, these resonate well in the clean label and natural markets.