Fiberstar Citri-Fi Natural Citrus Fiber

September 29, 2020

Fiberstar’s Citri-Fi® citrus fiber provides natural functional benefits which improve food product stability and quality. However, hydrating citrus fiber is key. Due to the natural fiber’s composition of both insoluble and soluble fiber, which contains natural intact pectin, Citri-Fi provides high water holding and emulsification properties. As a result, product developers create products with cleaner food labels without compromising quality. Fiberstar’s technical service team highlighted the below critical success factors when hydrating citrus fiber.

1) Why is hydrating Citri-Fi citrus fiber important when used in food products?

Citri-Fi citrus fiber is created from byproduct of the citrus juicing industry. The patented mechanical process opens up the fiber to create high surface area. As a result, this surface area provides multiple functional benefits including high water holding and emulsification. In the end, these functional benefits improve food products like meats, bakery, dairy and sauces.

Properly hydrating this citrus fiber fully activates the functional benefits especially since this citrus fiber's usage level ranges between 0.2% and 1.0% for most applications. In other words, Citri-Fi holds high levels of water and/or oil at low usage levels. Without proper hydration, the citrus fiber will not perform to its full potential.

2) How to hydrate Citri-Fi citrus fiber?

Fiberstar recommends four different hydrating methods. Three of the methods hydrate the citrus fiber using only water. However, the other method incorporates oil and water to create stable emulsions. Video demonstrations available below and on the website visualize the step-by-step process.

Dry ingredients method: Mixing Citri-Fi with other dry ingredients like sugar or salt helps disperse the citrus fiber when added to water. This method minimizes fish eyes or clumping and improves uniformed dispersion.
Mixer method: Adding Citri-Fi to the water vortex disperses the citrus fiber uniformly.
Blender method: Adding Citri-Fi to the water vortex disperses the citrus fiber uniformly.
5% emulsion method: Combining Citri-Fi and oil first and mixed for a minute opens up the fiber’s surface area so that the fiber traps the oil. Then, add water to the emulsion and continue mixing. During the mixing, the fiber holds more water and oil creating a stable emulsion. A thickened emulsion indicates that the Citri-Fi hydrated.

3) What is the most preferred way to hydrate citrus fiber and why?

Most of the time, Fiberstar recommends adding Citri-Fi citrus fiber to dry ingredients first before hydrating. This method is easy to implement at the plant level. Also, this method improves dispersion and prevents fish eyes or clumping to occur during food processing.

4) What common issues occur when the citrus fiber fails to hydrate fully?

Clumping: If the citrus fiber fails to hydrate enough, it may form clumps when it comes in contact with water during food processing.
Poor texture and mouthfeel: If the large size Citri-Fi product, ( i.e. TX10), remains partially hydrated, the material lacks softness. It creates a poor texture and mouthfeel like chewing a hard lump. The water binding functions fail to activate.
Limited functional benefits: Insufficient hydration weakens the functional benefits including water binding, viscosity, emulsification, etc. which causes developers to overuse or exceed the recommended usage level.
Flavor interference: If the citrus fiber fails to hydrate fully, the food ingredient causes uneven dispersion of the fiber in the final food application. The accumulated citrus fiber interferes with the flavor.

5) Which food products are the most sensitive and require the Citri-Fi to be fully hydrated and why?

The food formulas that are most sensitive are those that contain very little water and/or very high solids content. In other words, food systems that have little available water to hydrate the Citri-Fi citrus fiber. To avoid a situation where the Citri-Fi is not able to hydrate, it is recommended to add both Citri-Fi and water into the formula early on so that there is sufficient mixing and time for hydration. Without proper hydration, the Citri-Fi will not be able to fully function.

Some examples include fruit fillings, icings, cream filling, sauces, spreads, and bakery items that have minimal water addition. Another mixing technique that will assist with hydration in these sensitive applications is the use of shear, which will both accelerate hydration and help develop Citri-Fi’s functional properties.

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September 4, 2020

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Fiberstar Blog

Replace Methyl Cellulose in Meat Analogs Video Series

Fiberstar launched three new solutions sets using natural citrus fiber to replace methyl cellulose in meat alternatives. As a result, these innovative solutions meet the three requirements when developing meat substitutes. First, it needs to create meat-like appearance and texture. Secondly, the solution set should also deliver the succulence and juiciness that consumers expect. Lastly, this replacement solution must clean up labels.

Citri-Fi citrus fiber meets all the requirements to make a high quality meat analog. For instance, Citri-Fi^® TX large particle size and water holding creates the meat-like texture and appearance. In addition, the Citri-Fi 100 series' high surface area binds oil and water. As a result, the citrus fiber enhances the succulence and juiciness. Since Citri-Fi's labeling options include citrus fiber, dried citrus pulp or citrus flour, this resonates well in the clean label market. Moreover, this citrus fiber replaces methyl cellulose to create more natural meat alternative food products.

Watching the video series will not only speed up product development efforts, but it will also illustrate the excellent functional benefits that Citri-Fi citrus fiber offers.

To access the video series, please contact us!

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August 19, 2020

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Fiberstar Blog

Meat Substitute Foods: Creating Clean Labels using Citrus Fiber

Meat substitute food products popped up in the market like the color neon in the 1980’s. However, unlike neon which faded as fast as it illuminated the fashion world, plant-based food products are now the new normal. Environmental and health concerns steered meat alternatives into the food industry limelight. Because of this, plant-based is a long-term life style choice among consumers. And, this new lifestyle translates into cleaner food labels.

To create meat substitutes that simulate their animal counterparts, food manufacturers use a variety of ingredients. For instance, some of these ingredients include fibers, starches, gums and other stabilizers in addition to plant-based proteins. On the other hand, some ingredients like methyl cellulose quickly emerged as the go-to ingredient in formulators' tool boxes. One of the main benefits is its multi-functionality despite its labeling concerns.

However, today, new natural functional ingredients are available. For example, Fiberstar offers several solutions which create high quality meat substitute foods with cleaner labels.

Citri-Fi^® TX Citrus Fiber Builds Texture in Meat Substitutes

The company launched the new Citri-Fi TX10 citrus fiber. This natural ingredient’s large particle size simulates texturized vegetable protein (TVP) when building appearance and texture. For instance using between 1% to 3% allows formulators to create meatier texture while benefiting from the cold binding properties that may be lacking in formulations. And in some instances, developers do not need to use gluten which is a typical binding agent.

Citri-Fi TX10 labeling options include citrus fiber, dried citrus pulp or citrus flour which resonate well in the clean label markets.

Cleaning Labels using Citri-Fi Citrus Fiber Solutions

Another break-thru includes the use of citrus fiber in addition to other natural ingredients to displace methyl cellulose in vegan meats. The Citri-Fi 100 citrus fiber series not only holds large amounts of water but also serves as a natural emulsifier. Due to its insoluble and soluble fiber matrix which contains high levels of intact pectin, this natural ingredient creates emulsions that contribute to meat alternatives succulence. As a result, the meat-free products create the juicy sizzle during the cooking process.

This 100 series in conjunction with Citri-Fi TX10 works together to create the emulsion and meat-like texture that consumers expect in meat substitutes. In addition, these two products work synergistically with three natural solutions to help replace methyl cellulose. As a consequence, these solutions create consumer friendly food labels. The three solutions include ingredients such as starches, enzymes, alginates or gellan gum.

To learn more about these potential clean solutions, please contact Fiberstar technical support team at techsupport@fiberstar.net. The team will cut the development time by recommending the ideal system and demonstrate how to create high quality healthy vegan meat products via technical service, tutorials and videos.

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June 9, 2020

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Fiberstar Blog

Citrus Fiber/Fibre: Frequently Asked Questions

Citrus fiber is the "go-to" clean label ingredient, especially Citri-Fi^®citrus fiber. This natural citrus fiber sets itself apart from other citrus fibers due to its sustainable story, patented technology and superior functional benefits. For instance this citrus fiber or citrus fiber extract provides high water holding, emulsification and gelling properties. In addition, it cleans up food labeling. Learn more about this superior citrus fiber by checking out the frequently asked questions.

Because of citrus fiber's clean label functional benefits in food and beverage products, the food industry placed citrus fiber in the limelight. As a result, customers continue to ask questions about this superior natural ingredient. Below, we captured and shared common questions asked about this excellent clean label food ingredient.

Citrus Fiber: Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Citrus Fiber?

Citrus fiber consists of insoluble and/or soluble fibrous components of citrus fruits such as orange, lemon and limes. Though most people automatically assume that food makers use citrus fiber for fortification purposes such as "adding fiber", this is not the case for citrus fibers like Citri-Fi^®. Not all citrus fibers are created the same. For instance, Citri-Fi uses a process free from chemicals to convert byproduct or "upcycled" material produced by the citrus juicing industry into higher valued products. As a result, the patented mechanical process opens up the fiber to provide high surface area.

Because of the high surface area and composition, this citrus fiber can be used at very low levels while providing high functional benefits such as water holding, emulsification and gelling. Citri-Fi contains high amounts of both insoluble and soluble fiber, especially native pectin, that provide the functional benefits. Because of this, Citri-Fi improves texture, taste and stability of food first and contributes some dietary fiber second.

Key differences separate Citri-Fi citrus from others in the market. Citri-Fi adheres to a sustainable model using byproducts from food processes. Other fibers use grind and grow models. In other words, other suppliers specifically source their materials from products grown specifically to be processed into plant fibers. In addition, some citrus fibers contain mostly insoluble fiber. As a result, they provide limited functionality in the food product. Lastly, Citri-Fi uses a process free from chemical modifications. Other processors use alcohol washes and other chemicals to create their products.

2. What is Citrus Fiber Made From?

Citrus fiber can be made from different citrus fruits such as orange, lemon or limes which are the most common raw materials.

3. What is Citrus Fiber Extract?

Citrus fiber extract serves as another description for citrus fiber. Some ingredient suppliers use this terminology to try and differentiate their citrus fiber products from others in the market. Ultimately, food labeling trumps when it comes to describing this natural ingredient. For example, the FDA labeling guidance for Citri-Fi includes the following options: citrus fiber, dried citrus pulp or citrus flour. And the USDA fallows citrus flour or dried citrus pulp. These labeling options resonate well in the natural and clean label markets.

4. Is Citrus Fiber a Natural Emulsifier?

Not all citrus fibers on the market provide emulsification benefits. However, Citri-Fi citrus fiber does. This natural citrus fiber extract has high surface area that easily traps water and oil. Also the fibrous composition contains lipophilic and hydrophilic ends which attracts the oil and water into the matrix which further binds the two. For instance, Citri-Fi binds oil and water to create emulsions that are used in food applications such as dressings, sauces, beverages, dairy and meat alternatives like patties. Another feature is that this natural citrus fiber serves as a plating agent. In other words, Citri-Fi, when mixed with oil, turns difficult-to-use liquids into flowable powders. As a result this benefits foods like beverages, meats and sauces.

5. Is Citrus Fiber an Allergen?

Citrus fiber is allergen-free.

6. Is Citrus Fiber Gluten-free?

Citrus fiber is also gluten-free.

7. What is Citrus Fiber Composition?

As mentioned before, citrus fiber composition varies depending on the supplier. Each supplier uses different processing methods as well as sources different raw materials. Citri-Fi citrus fiber contains about 70% total dietary fiber consisting of both soluble and insoluble fiber. Moreover, this citrus fiber consists of high amounts of intact native pectin. In other words, this composition is as close to natural as nature intended. Other citrus fibers may contain more insoluble fiber. As a result, these types of citrus fiber need to be blended with other hydrocolloids to provide the same benefits as Citri-Fi citrus fiber.

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June 2, 2020

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Fiberstar Blog

Natural Ice Cream using Citrus Fiber

Ice cream is one of those foods that puts a smile on anyone's face around the world. Since its invention, this frozen dessert turned into many shapes, forms, flavors and textures. And thru the years, mass production, storage and shipping allowed many smiling faces around the world to enjoy this treat. However, today, consumers in some parts check labels before dipping the spoon. As a result, ice cream manufacturers gravitate toward clean label ingredients to create more natural ice creams. Yet, is this possible if chemical emulsifiers and stabilizers were originally used to create ice cream more tolerable to transport, handling and storage conditions?

Citri-FiCitrus Fiber in Natural Ice Cream

To clean up food labeling declarations, manufacturers seek out natural ice cream ingredients that provide functionality. For instance, Citri-Fi citrus fiber provides high water holding and emulsification properties that create high quality frozen desserts like ice cream. As a matter of fact, this natural citrus fiber creates clean label ice creams by replacing chemical emulsifiers and/or stabilizers. Because of this, labeling contains a shorter and simpler statement. At low usage levels (0.3% to 1.0%), Citri-Fi 100M40 is easily added to the dry ingredients and mixed first.

Other Key Benefits in Natural Frozen Desserts

Citri-Fi also controls the ice crystal growth to prevent grainy textures. As a result, during storage, the ice cream maintains the full body and creamy mouthfeel without the ice crystals. Because of the freeze/thaw stability, this natural ice cream ingredient creates high quality frozen products over shelf life. In addition, depending on some formulations, Citri-Fi also reduces melt time.

Lastly, Citri-Fi also performs well in dairy-free ice creams or vegan frozen desserts. Since this natural citrus fiber binds water to control water migration, Citri-Fi maintains the smooth texture of dairy-free ice creams over storage time.

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May 19, 2020

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Fiberstar Blog

How to Add Citri-Fi® Citrus Fiber to Foods

Before diving into how to use citrus fiber in foods, let us review why you need to use Citri-Fi in the first place. Citri-Fi citrus fiber uses a process free from chemical modifications. The mechanical process opens up the fiber to provide high water holding and emulsification properties. As a result, when used at low levels (<1%), citrus fiber contributes multiple benefits to a variety of food products such as meats, bakery, beverages, sauces, dairy and frozen foods. Also, this natural ingredient improves hot trending products like dairy and meat alternatives. In the end, Citri-Fi citrus fiber should be your "go-to" natural ingredient to improve stability while cleaning up labels and enhancing nutrition.

Depending on the product, this healthy food ingredient provides various benefits. For instance, this food emulsifier binds water and oil which improves the stability of dairy, beverages, sauces, dressings and dairy alternatives. Additionally, Citri-Fi holds onto water to increase yields and improve juiciness and texture of meats and meat substitution products. Because this natural citrus fiber provides multiple functionalities, it replaces ingredients like starches, gums and other stabilizers to clean up food product labels.

Now that you joined the loyal citrus fiber club, let us talk about how to use it in food products successfully. Although your first urge will be to sprinkle Citri-Fi like pixie dust, proper hydration is key! In the end, properly hydrating Citri-Fi activates the full functionality of this citrus fiber.

How to Use Citri-Fi Citrus Fiber in Foods

There are four main ways to use this natural hydrocolloid in foods to prevent clumping or "fish eyes".

1. Pre-mixed in Dry Ingredients

One option includes pre-mixing Citri-Fi citrus fiber with dry ingredients such as sugar, salt, flour, etc. depending on the food product. The dry ingredients should be approximately 10 times the weight of Citri-Fi. Moreover, foods that benefit include bakery items, seasoning mixes and processed meats.

2. Dispersed in Oil

Another way to incorporate this natural food emulsifier is in oil. For instance, Citri-Fi can be mixed into an oil before being added to the food product or liquid. On the other hand, this natural emulsifier when mixed with a certain ratio of oil turns liquids into free-flowing powders As a result, this plated citrus fiber improves the handling and usability of the product. And as a bonus, when added to water or other food products, this plated material provides additional functionalities. For example, plated Citri-Fi provides stability and mouthfeel in beverages.

3. Dispersed into Syrups

Also, Citri-Fi can be added into syrups like sugar or glucose.

4. Prehydrated Directly in Water

Though we recommend adding Citri-Fi to dry ingredients before hydrating in water, you do have the option to prehydrate directly in water. However, in order to use this method, you need to add Citri-Fi in 3% or less solutions. In addition, this natural food ingredient needs to be added using strong agitation to avoid clumping and "fish eyes". Some recommended agitation options include blender, rotor stator homogenizer, mechanical mixer or a magnetic stirrer.

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May 12, 2020

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Fiberstar Blog

5 Way to Create Healthy Food using Citrus Fiber

Creating healthy food today involves subtracting negatively perceived ingredients in addition to adding health promoting elements. For instance, food makers continue to reduce oils and fats in foods. As a result, consumers benefit from lower calories. On the other hand, creating better foods entails removing allergens such as soy, gluten or egg. Regardless, Citri-Fi citrus fiber is an ultimate tool in creating healthier high quality foods. Since this citrus fiber provides high water holding and emulsification properties, it improves stability, texture and nutrition in a variety of food products.

1. Increase Fiber Contribution in a Variety of Foods

Today, food makers incorporate dietary fiber to make fiber claims. Since not all fibers are created the same, food manufacturers use more than one fiber type like a cocktail. For instance, some foods use functional fibers like Citri-Fi citrus fiber to provide water holding and emulsification properties. At the same time, formulators add other fibers simply to meet the dietary fiber claim requirements. The beauty of Citri-Fi is that its functional attributes benefit a variety of healthy food while also contributing fiber. For example, this citrus fiber improves mouthfeel and clouding in beverages such as ready-to-drink (RTD) and powdered drinks. And Citri-Fi enhances other foods like nutrition bars, snacks and bakery items.

Also, this functional citrus fiber replaces other ingredients like starches, gums and stabilizers. As a result, Citri-Fi cleans up label declarations while improving the nutritional profile. Citri-Fi's labeling options include citrus fiber, dried citrus pulp or citrus flour.

2. Reduce Oil or Fat in Bakery Products

Citri-Fi citrus fiber's high water holding capacity allows bakers to reduce oil and/or fats in baked goods. For instance, when Citri-Fi is used between 0.25% to 1.00% in muffins, cookies or cakes, this natural ingredient retains moisture. As a result, bakery item's freshness factor remains for a longer period time. And this citrus fiber creates a texture that simulates a full-fat mouthfeel which consumers expect. Citri-Fi replaces up to 50% of oil or fat in bakery products without comprising the quality.

3. Remove Egg Products in Dressings and Sauces

Another industry trend is egg-free dressings and sauces which improves the nutritional profile. For instance, dressings like mayonnaise can now be made egg-less without compromising the texture. Citri-Fi citrus fiber's oil and binding power make this happen. Now, these type of products give vegan and vegetarians more options. And due to recent food safety concerns, food services switched to egg-free dressings and sauce food products. Either way, this natural citrus fiber creates a smooth texture that remains stable for long periods of time at low usage levels.

4. Minimize Saturated Fats in Meat Alternatives

Citri-Fi citrus fiber also reduces saturated fats in meat substitution products like meat-free patties. Since many meat alternatives use coconut oil, these products tend to contain high amounts of saturated fats. When Citri-Fi 100 series is used in an emulsion, this natural ingredient allows food makers to use unsaturated oils and at a lower level. At the same time, the meat alternative is juicy and succulent during the cooking process. And to improve the meat-like texture, Fiberstar recently launched Citri-Fi TX. This new citrus fiber provides cold binding which allows food makers to replace binders like gluten. As a result, those formulating without allergens benefit with a clean label binding system.

5. Improve Gluten-free Food Texture, Nutrition and Quality

Gluten-free continues to be a market need. Initially, first generation foods were loaded with simple carbohydrates with a short shelf-life. However, today, food makers focus on creating higher quality and healthier versions. And manufacturers upgraded to a more wholesome approach to gluten-free food making. Citri-Fi citrus fiber is an ideal solution when creating gluten-free foods. Because this natural citrus fiber holds onto water, gluten-free foods retain moisture longer. As a result, this improves the freshness factor. And because Citri-Fi meets the FDA fiber guidelines, this natural ingredient contributes fiber to the overall nutrition.

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April 30, 2020

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Fiberstar Blog

New Meat Alternative Ingredients: Top 5 FAQ About Citri-Fi® TX BLOG

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%.

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April 21, 2020

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Fiberstar Blog

Egg-Free Sauces: A Hard Egg to Crack BLOG

Eggs are essential when creating foods such as baked goods, dairy desserts, dressings and sauces. Because of its composition, eggs offer the biggest bang for the buck - emulsification. On the other hand, despite eggs being a natural food, it does not serve the vegan, vegetarian and/or allergen-free markets. And in some markets, developers seek out egg-free options to create healthier and safe food products for retail and food service. In that case, Citri-Fi citrus fiber is an excellent natural ingredient to use when creating egg-free sauces and dressings.

Creating Egg-cellent Egg-free Sauces

Citri-Fi citrus fiber provides high water holding and emulsification properties. Due to its composition, this natural fiber binds oil and water and creates highly stable sauces. As a result, formulators can eliminate eggs in certain egg-free sauces and dressings like mayonnaise. Citri-Fi's recommended usage levels range between 0.25% to 1.50%. And because this functional fiber provides similar benefits to eggs, Citri-Fi also replaces starches and gums which are typical go-to's when formulating egg-free sauces. Citri-Fi cleans up labels and creates high quality food products. For instance, Citri-Fi's labeling options include citrus fiber, dried citrus pulp or citrus flour which resonate well in the natural food markets.

Moreover, Citri-Fi citrus fiber also provides thickness and full body mouthfeel. This plant-based ingredient is vegan, vegetarian and allergen-free. It has no E-number which is ideal for certain markets like Europe. Citri-Fi creates highly stable egg-less sauces and dressings. Learn more about natural emulsification or creating no egg sauces by checking out the video library.

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April 16, 2020

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Fiberstar Blog

BLOG: Replace Phosphates in Meats: 3 Ways to Use Citrus Fiber

No preservatives. Chemical-free. Natural. All these terms sit in the lime light when it comes to describing clean label food products. And the meat and poultry category is no stranger to that. Consumers continue to demand cleaner and more natural meat products. However, removing phosphates is not an easy task. Phosphate is the secret sauce to create high yield poultry products that benefit both the producer and the consumer. Producers save money while consumers enjoy a juicy and succulent meal. Replacing phosphates in meats with natural ingredients appear to be a food science paradox. However, there are phosphate replacement solutions available.

The 3 Pillars: Natural, Meats and Citrus Fiber

Citri-Fi citrus fiber is produced using a patented process that opens up the fiber to create high surface area. As a result, this natural ingredient provides high water holding and emulsification properties. These functionalities are key in meat processing. Ultimately, Citri-Fi improves marinade injected poultry or chicken yields and juicy texture. At the same time, this natural ingredient reduces purge. Citri-Fi's labeling options include citrus flour or dried citrus pulp which resonate well in the natural markets.

The 3 Solutions: Starches, Carrageenan, Sodium Carbonate

One of the most common ways to replace phosphates in meats include using citrus fiber together with starches. Typically we recommend using a rice starch due to its small particle size. Given that Citri-Fi holds onto the water, the other water loving ingredients - starch- creates the viscosity and gel matrix during the cooking process to maintain high yields. Citri-Fi usage level ranges between 0.3% to 0.5%. And the rice starch usage level ranges between 0.3% to 0.8%.

Another phosphate replacement solution is to use citrus fiber in conjunction with carrageenan. Both water loving ingredients tend to hold onto the water during the cooking process to produce juicy and succulent poultry products. Again, Citri-Fi's usage level ranges between 0.3% to 0.5%. And the carrageenan's usage level ranges between 0.1% to 0.3%.

Lastly, citrus fiber and sodium carbonate work together to replace phosphates in poultry meats. Sodium carbonate relaxes the animal muscle to allow more water to bind. Meanwhile, Citri-Fi holds onto the water to maintain high yields and reduce purge in the meats. Here, Citri-Fi's usage level ranges between 0.2% to 0.4%. Studies show that injected poultry using Citri-Fi and sodium carbonate together improved yield by more than 4% versus poultry injected with no phosphates. Coincidentally, many meat processors already use sodium carbonate as a processing aid or for other purposes.

To learn more about the clean label ways to replace phosphates in meats, please check out our VIDEO or contact us.

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1) Why is hydrating Citri-Fi citrus fiber important when used in food products?

2) How to hydrate Citri-Fi citrus fiber?

3) What is the most preferred way to hydrate citrus fiber and why?

4) What common issues occur when the citrus fiber fails to hydrate fully?

5) Which food products are the most sensitive and require the Citri-Fi to be fully hydrated and why?

Additional Information

Additional Information

Creating clean label meat substitutes is possible by using natural ingredients like citrus fiber which holds a lot of water to enhance juiciness, serves as a natural emulsifier and creates the meat-like appearance and texture that consumers expect when eating plant-based meats.

Citri-Fi® TX Citrus Fiber Builds Texture in Meat Substitutes

Cleaning Labels using Citri-Fi Citrus Fiber Solutions

Additional Information

Citrus Fiber: Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Citrus Fiber?

2. What is Citrus Fiber Made From?

3. What is Citrus Fiber Extract?

4. Is Citrus Fiber a Natural Emulsifier?

5. Is Citrus Fiber an Allergen?

6. Is Citrus Fiber Gluten-free?

7. What is Citrus Fiber Composition?

Citri-Fi Citrus Fiber in Natural Ice Cream

Other Key Benefits in Natural Frozen Desserts

Additional Information

How to Use Citri-Fi Citrus Fiber in Foods

Additional Information

1. Increase Fiber Contribution in a Variety of Foods

2. Reduce Oil or Fat in Bakery Products

3. Remove Egg Products in Dressings and Sauces

4. Minimize Saturated Fats in Meat Alternatives

5. Improve Gluten-free Food Texture, Nutrition and Quality

Additional Information about Citrus Fiber and Healthy Foods

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

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

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

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

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

Additional Information about Citri-Fi Citrus Fiber and Meat Alternatives

Creating Egg-cellent Egg-free Sauces

Additional Information

Citri-Fi® citrus fiber is a highly functional natural ingredient that can be used to replace phosphates in meats. At low usage levels and in conjunction with either starch, carrageenan or sodium carbonate, this natural citrus fiber improves yields, reduces purge and cleans up food labeling.

The 3 Pillars: Natural, Meats and Citrus Fiber

The 3 Solutions: Starches, Carrageenan, Sodium Carbonate

Additional Information

QUICK LINKS

VIDEO LIBRARY

Citri-Fi^® TX Citrus Fiber Builds Texture in Meat Substitutes

Citri-FiCitrus Fiber in Natural Ice Cream

Citri-Fi^®citrus fiber is a highly functional natural ingredient that can be used to replace phosphates in meats. At low usage levels and in conjunction with either starch, carrageenan or sodium carbonate, this natural citrus fiber improves yields, reduces purge and cleans up food labeling.