Email Us info@fiberstar.net
Call Us +1 (715) 425-7550
ORDER SAMPLE
Menu

Tag: sustainable

Citri-Fi Citrus Fiber at SupplySide West Show - nutrition bars, gummies, tablets, beverages
November 14, 2024
No Comments
Fiberstar Blog, Supplements & Nutrition

Natural Food Ingredients Nabbed the Show at SSW

The SupplySide West show, which rebranded into SupplySide Global, significantly grew in size again this year due to the influx of international suppliers. The mainstream trend continued to revolve around pure, holistic and natural food ingredients. Companies differentiated their products by health platforms, regulatory status, and sourcing (local vs. overseas). Other claims that emerged in the show included women-owned, sustainability and upcycling.

The SupplySide West show, which started its life as a supplement expo, significantly grew in size again this year. For over a decade now, I have trucked around the show floor, looking for the latest and greatest in natural food ingredient technologies. Before, I wandered around with chunk heels cursing the traditional business attire expectations. Today, I traded my pumps in for dressy sneakers to help me reach the finish line which was beyond aisle 8100! After circulating around the show floor, I captured some insight that is worth a share.

Mainstream: Pure, Holistic and Natural Food Ingredients

With the spotlight on ultra-processed and pathogenic-free foods, it is no wonder that consumers are demanding safer and more nutritious products. They are label reading more than ever today which is causing food and supplement manufacturers to reassess their own products’ ingredients. As a result, many ingredient suppliers at the show touted their natural and minimally processed status. Some of the common claims included organic certified, committed to nature and clean label. With this in mind, it was a slam dunk to promote citrus fiber at the show.

Fiberstar, Inc. exhibited at SupplySide West pitching Citri-Fi® citrus fiber. This natural food ingredient checks all the boxes when it comes to clean label and the natural origin. Citri-Fi is byproduct of the citrus juicing industry which uses a process free from chemical modifications. Because of this, the fibrous composition, including the high concentration of native pectin, stays intact giving it high water holding power and emulsification properties. As a result, this natural food ingredient improves the texture, stability and nutrition of a variety of food, beverage and supplements.

At low usage level (<1%), this upcycled citrus fiber improves foods such as beverages, dairy products, nutrition bars, dry blends, baked goods and gummies. Because of the multi-functionality, Citri-Fi can extend and/or replace other hydrocolloids like starches, food gums and other plant-based fibers. Though there are several citrus fibers to choose from in the market, Citri-Fi is unique because it is not a byproduct of the pectin extraction process which typically uses chemical modifications or solvents. Citri-Fi is as close as its roots in nature which makes this ingredient a true all-natural option.

Health Platforms: Magnified and Multiplied

Selling natural food ingredients via health platforms is still prominent. This year, digestive health topped the charts during my walkabout. Numerous companies showcased ingredients such as prebiotics, probiotics, symbiotics and postbiotics. Other prominent platforms included immune, bone, weight management, cognitive and heart. On the other hand, a few new platforms grew in presence which involved sleep, stress-free, aging, skin, hair, anti-allergy, oral, liver, diabetes, joint, men’s and now women’s health (especially menopause-related).

Geographic Dichotomy: Local versus Overseas

Despite US-based consumers clamoring for local and made-in-the-USA food products, the show proved international trade was alive and thriving. From observation, the show’s growth looked like it was attributed to new small ingredient suppliers primarily from Asia. These businesses were littered amongst the large multi-national distrubutors. And unlike the large company booths, many of these smaller booths lacked the luster. In many cases, it was challenging to understand their point of difference when a booth two doors down sold the same ingredients. Are natural food ingredients, which were once considered value-added, commoditizing with the plethora of oversea players?

Regardless of the international offerings on the show floor, companies who saw value in USA made highlighted this as a competitive advantage. Some of the words included domestic supply, USA origin and locally made. As the influx of ingredient suppliers grow each year, natural food ingredient companies will need to innovate to strengthen their competitive advantage in the marketplace. Otherwise, they will find themselves competing on price which can paralyze profit margins.

Over the years, Fiberstar strived to be ahead in citrus fiber innovation. Selling a sustainable and upcycled citrus fiber was just the beginning.  The company created varying particle sizes, co-processed blends, higher viscosity versions and certified organic SKUs which set Fiberstar apart from other suppliers. In addition, the company continues to offer a domestic citrus fiber using a stable and reliable supply chain.

New Emerging Trend: Women-owned Businesses

Another trend springing up includes businesses highlighting their women-owned status. During COVID, many women-owned businesses closed their doors for various reasons. However, post pandemic, these business types returned in full force driving the economic recovery. Their popularity soared in many markets including the food and beverage industry. Claiming women-owned gives some companies an edge to win over customers and generate new sales.

Other Moderate Buzz for the Field

Besides the hot ticket items mentioned, some companies pitched other points of difference such as vegan, non-GMO, and better-for-you. The nature of the show and immensity in size should have been busting with environmental messaging. However, after perusing the signage, I was surprised to see a small number of players promoting sustainability and upcycling. Despite the growing awareness, this universal topic will continue to be at the center stage for years to come. Companies embracing this now will be favorably positioned in the future.

Fiberstar’s upcycled citrus fiber continues to attract food manufacturers due to its green story and clean labeling. Labeling options include citrus fiber, dried citrus pulp or citrus flour which resonate well in the natural markets. Because of the company’s deep rooted knowledge in repurposing plant-based fibers, the company will continue to exploit its expertise creating new products to serve the unmet market needs.

For more information about Fiberstar’s citrus fiber innovation, please contact us.

Read more →

Plant-based Milks - Citri-Fi Citrus Fiber Stability, Clean Label, Natural Creamy Mouthfeel
September 13, 2024
No Comments
Dairy Alterantives, Fiberstar Blog

Citrus Fiber in Oat Milk: Clean & Sustainable

The plant-based milk category is no stranger to consumers’ environmental and health concerns. Because of this, the market stirred up the need for more clean label ingredient options. One natural solution includes using Citri-Fi® citrus fiber in oat milk due to it water holding and emulsification benefits. Not only is this citrus fiber created using a process free from chemical modifications, but it also provides product developers clean labeling options.

A popular meme showing a coffee sipper ordering a sugar-free, fat-free, dairy-free and water-free drink is handed a cup of “air” emphasizes consumers’ desire for extreme customization. But this comical anecdote is not too far from the truth. Coffee shops jumped on the customization bandwagon years ago. Today, they personalize each disposable cup with a Customer’s name and fill it with tailored contents. Because of this customization, foods like plant-based milks found a home in the baristas arsenal of coffee condiments. Among these plant-based options emerged oat milk.

The Oat Milk Enthusiasm in Words

Oat milk started its craze in the coffee shop scene. But it was not long before it entered the mainstream beverage world alongside the market leader - almond milk. The oat-based beverage’s sudden appearance created a ripple of curiosity amongst consumers. And with early adoption and newness comes the questions. It was no surprise that Fiberstar’s SEO radar picked up numerous internet inquiries wrapped around this new oat milk phenomena.

Some typical queries included: What is oat milk? Is oat milk sustainable? Is oat milk clean? Many of these questions share an underlying common theme that pertains to consumers environmental and health concerns. However, if one dives deeper, some of the inquiries become highly specific such as: Is oat milk high in fiber? Does oat milk contain beta-glucan? Why is gellan used in oat milk? And one of the more fascinating questions that surfaced was what is citrus fiber in oat milk?

Challenges in Processing Plant-based Milks

Like many plant-based milks, oat milk processing comes with its own set of hurdles. Creating oat milk requires breaking the oat grain apart into pieces and converting it into a smooth drinkable liquid. After processing the oat, the liquid fraction typically contains remaining plant-based materials that tend to settle out during shelf-life in a finished beverage. Because of this, commercial emulsifiers and stabilizers are commonly used to keep the particulates in suspension. One popular stabilizer used in this product type is gellan gum.

Thanks to consumers’ growing conscience, food labeling plays an active role in oat milk’s existence. Though gellan gum is a holy grail ingredient when it comes to functionality, it is being associated with ultra-processed foods. As a result, formulators are searching for clean alternatives. But, what is considered clean label in the oat milk world? This curiosity explains why internet inquiries are revolving around citrus fiber in oat milk.

Compare and Contrast Citrus Fibers

Most citrus fibers are created from byproduct which supports the industry’s upcycling efforts. And they all share the clean labeling options such as citrus fiber, dried citrus pulp or citrus flour. However, not all upcycled citrus fibers are created the same. For instance, many citrus fibers are byproduct of pectin extraction. Typically, these processes use chemical modifications or solvents. And because of these type of processes, the final citrus fiber tends to have limited functionality in food and beverages.

In contrast, there are other citrus fibers that are byproducts of the citrus juicing industry. For example, Citri-Fi citrus fiber is an upcycled food ingredient that uses a process free of chemical modifications. As a result, the fibrous composition stays intact, including the high pectin content, which gives it its high water holding and emulsification power. And when Citri-Fi is exposed to high shear such as homogenization, the fibrous composition adds viscosity which is another key benefit in oat milks.

Citrus Fiber in Oat Milk

Due to the natural water holding and emulsification, oat milk developers are exploring this food ingredient as a clean label option. Citri-Fi citrus fiber, between 0.1% and 1%, can create smooth and stable oat milks without the use of additional food gums like gellan gum. The clean labeling implies dietary fiber which enriches the nutritional profile of plant milks. Citri-Fi is heat and shear stable so that its dual functionality is not only maintained, but depending on the shear effects, enhanced.

In addition to the functional and labeling benefits, Citri-Fi citrus fiber is also available in certified organic. This natural food ingredient has no e-number. And it is non-GMO project certified, allergen-free and gluten-free.

Other Uses of Oats

Besides plant-based milks, the use of oats branched out into other food products including yogurts, frozen desserts, spreads and creamers. The popularity as a coffee creamer stems from its ability to froth easier, mellow out acidic notes and create a rich and creamy mouthfeel. However, some of these same benefits improve the quality of other food and beverage formats. And like citrus fiber in oat milk, Citri-Fi’s water holding and emulsification can improve the stability of yogurts, minimize ice crystallization in frozen desserts and reduce syneresis in spreads.

Now that these plant-based categories welcomed the newcomer, many product developers are creating second generation products focusing on protein enrichment, flavor assortment and sugar reduction. Other trends tilt toward portability and convenience. Regardless, oat milk is here to stay due to its low environmental impact and health benefits which tells a eco-friendly and sustainable story.

Read more →

Dressings, Sauces, Condiments - Citri-Fi Citrus Fiber Creates Stability, Natural Emulsifier, Creamy Texture, Clean Label
August 12, 2024
No Comments
Dressings, Soups & Sauces, Fiberstar Blog

Eco-friendly Culinary Ingredients: Dressing & Sauces

Sustainability is driving consumers’ interests in choosing the best food to better this world. One eco-friendly culinary ingredient – Citri-Fi® citrus fiber – not only is produced from byproduct of the juicing process (upcycled), but also, it provides stability, emulsification, and natural texture in a variety of finished dressing and sauce food products.

Sustainability is popping up front and center in the food industry among other sectors. Because of this, consumers continue to grow savvier when learning about farm to fork. And this encapsulates everything from how raw materials are procured to the finished goods on the shelf. But in the end, how does one identify an eco-friendly culinary ingredient? This is a frequently asked question.

Eco-friendly and the Food Industry

First, let’s define eco-friendly. The Webster dictionary indicates it is an adjective describing things as “not environmentally harmful”. However, this is a blanket descriptor which applies to numerous things in this world ranging from reducing plastic waste to using renewable energy. So, what does that have to do with the food industry?

The food industry has a long and complex supply chain which starts with growing the raw material and ends with packaging the food for distribution. The steps in-between are many which also affect the environmental impact. Currently, the industry is slowly tracking the influential factors and creating regulations, programs and certifications to help improve the food system. One key area of the supply chain is food ingredients.

Clean and Natural Food Ingredients

There are a plethora of terms that consumers patrol in the food ingredients industry besides eco-friendly. Some buzzwords include green, clean label, natural, organic and sustainable. Many of these feed into the eco-friendly culinary ingredient definition. Additionally, these trends impress upon different food categories such as baked goods, beverages and dairy products.

For instance, clean label is key in dressing and sauces. The industry offers several clean label food ingredient options. However, they all come with their own challenges. For example, food starches and gums are typical work horses in the sauce arena. Yet, if these ingredients are not dialed in correctly, they tend to create gummy or stringy textures. And in some cases, certain ingredients do not hold up to processing conditions like low pH and high heat. As a result, dressing and sauces tend to separate over time and/or produce off-textures. Also, though starches are widely accepted, some food gums fall suspect on food labeling.

Eco-friendly Culinary Ingredient: Citrus Fiber

Another sustainable food ingredient ideal for dressing and sauces is citrus fiber. This new kid on the block checks all the eco-friendly boxes. However, not all citrus fibers are created the same. Citri-Fi citrus fiber is produced from byproduct of the citrus juicing industry using a process free from chemical modifications. This upcycled ingredient still contains intact native pectin which is vital to providing high water holding and emulsification properties.

Other similar ingredients are byproduct of pectin extraction. Though considered upcycled, these parallel ingredients are typically subjected to chemicals due to their process. Because of this, functionalities are limited. On the other hand, Citri-Fi’s process involves only heat and water.

Citri-Fi creates natural textures at low usage levels (<1%). Also, this eco-friendly culinary ingredient can thicken, stabilize and emulsify a variety of sauces. Some types include dairy-free, vegan, organic, and plant-based. In addition, because Citri-Fi’s composition resembles tomato composition, this natural ingredient can be used to extend tomato solids in sauces and pastes.

Connecting the Dots: Eco-friendly and Citrus Fiber

When a product developer, food scientist or culinary chef uses Citri-Fi, they can rest at ease that there is a sustainable story behind its existence. Citri-Fi’s green story starts from procurement and ends with improving a finished dressing or sauce. Labeling options include citrus fiber, dried citrus pulp or citrus flour which all resonate well in the natural and clean label markets.

Citrus fiber also has no e-number which is key in regions such as Europe. Certified organic Citri-Fi is now available – the Citri-Fi 400 series. This eco-friendly culinary ingredient is non-GMO, gluten-free and allergen-free.

For more information, please contact us.

Read more →

Citri-Fi Citrus Fiber Water Holding, Natural Emulsifier, Upcycled, Sustainable, Gelling Properties
July 10, 2024
No Comments
Fiberstar Blog

Citrus Fiber Powder: Top FAQ in 2024

Citrus fiber is a natural food ingredient used to improve nutrition, texture and stability of food and beverages. Despite its global use and increased awareness, the food industry continues to ask questions about this ingredient due to its sustainable halo. A recent keyword analysis revealed a few of the top-line questions involving citrus fiber's benefits, its natural status and gluten-free positioning.

Surprise! The Internet is exploding with information about the newest ingredient on the block -- citrus fiber.  Also known as, citrus fibre, orange fiber, orange fruit fiber, citrus fiber powder, fibre de citrus, citrus fruit extract, the list goes on. For decades, the food and beverage industry created products with a variety of ingredients ranging from commodity (e.g. flour, sugar, salt) to specialty (e.g. pectin, carrageenan, gellan gum and other hydrocolloids). But thanks to sourcing efficiencies, new processing technology and evolving consumer trends, food ingredients like citrus fiber are abundantly available to improve the nutrition, texture and stability of food products.

Despite its global use and increased awareness, the market continues to probe for more information. In the 2024 recent keyword analysis, several questions surfaced. Below lists the top five questions pertaining to citrus fiber. Let’s take a moment to expand on the topic further.

  1. What is citrus fiber powder and why use it?

Citrus fiber is a food ingredient produced from citrus fruit such as lemons, limes and oranges. However, not all citrus fibers are created the same. Citrus fiber differs by botanical source, processing conditions and composition. Fiberstar, Inc., a citrus fiber supplier, uses the byproduct from the citrus juicing industry to make a sustainable and upcycled fiber called Citri-Fi®. The composition of insoluble and soluble fiber, in the form of native intact pectin, provides the high water holding and emulsification properties which benefit a variety of food and beverages.

Other similar ingredients tend to be byproduct of the pectin extraction process which typically uses chemicals (usually acid) and solvents. Because of this, these citrus fibers likely lose some of its functionality causing some producers to add pectin back into the citrus fiber mix to increase its advantage.

Citri-Fi citrus fiber usage rate ranges from 0.5% to 1.0% in a variety of foods including:

  • Baking: moisture retention, improved freshness over time, replacement of eggs
  • Gluten-free bakery: moisture retention, emulsifier, improves freshness over time
  • Beverages: improved mouthfeel, stabilizer, pulp enhancer
  • Dairy: syneresis control, stabilizer, creamy mouthfeel
  • Dairy alternatives: creamy mouthfeel, stabilizer, syneresis control, gellan gum replacement
  • Dressing & sauces: emulsification, improved texture, stability
  • Dry plating: converting liquids to flowable powders
  • Meat substitutes: emulsification, binding, firmness, meat-like texture
  • Processed meats: improved yields, succulence, phosphate replacement
  • Pet foods: emulsifier, stabilizer, texturizing

  1. What are the benefits of using citrus fiber powder?

Citri-Fi citrus fiber provides both water holding and emulsification properties. Additionally, it gels due to its high level of intact native pectin. These functionalities mirror other hydrocolloids in the market. As a result, this upcycled food ingredient can be used to improve nutrition, texture, stability and labeling of food and beverages. Labeling options include citrus fiber, dried citrus pulp or citrus flour which resonate well in the natural and clean label markets.

Citrus fiber has no E-number which is key in regions like Europe. Many food formulators avoid using E-number ingredients. Citri-Fi is also non-allergenic and gluten-free making it an ideal ingredient to use in gluten-free formulating. This natural citrus fiber is non-GMO project certified. And the Citri-Fi 400 line is USDA certified organic which makes it a one-of-a-kind in the market.

Because this citrus fiber is produced from byproduct of the citrus juicing industry, it is considered upcycled, sustainable and eco-friendly. And like its name infers, this ingredient does contribute dietary fiber (>80%).

  1. Is citrus fiber an ultra-processed food (UPF)?

Ultra-processed foods or UPFs entered the limelight recently due to their health implications. These types of industrial made foods typically use ingredients that have been synthesized in laboratories, derived from food components or extracted from foods. Though citrus fiber is extracted from citrus fruit, it is not considered an ultra-processed food.

Since citrus fiber is not a finished product, consumers do not eat it by itself. On the other hand, UPFs are finished food products consumed by the general population. UPFs typically incorporate ingredients like saturated or hydrogenated fats, salt, refined sugars or flours and artificial colors, flavors and preservatives.

  1. Is citrus fiber a food additive?

The United States, Europe and other countries' governing bodies manage their own definitions of food additives. Citrus fiber does not qualify as a food additive in the U.S. or Europe. It is a considered an ingredient in both the US and Europe which lands out of the scope of the food additive list. Because of this, citrus fiber has no E-number in Europe which makes it an ideal natural food ingredient to use to benefit food and beverages like baked goods, juices, snacks, sauces, meat substitutes, plant-based beverages, dairy-free cheeses and more.

  1. Is citrus fiber gluten-free?

Gluten-free requires testing and monitoring. Naturally, citrus fiber contains no gluten.  However, some citrus fibers are processed using equipment that may have been contaminated from gluten-containing foods. Therefore, it is important for the citrus fiber suppliers to guarantee that their citrus fiber is gluten-free. Citri-Fi citrus fiber falls under the threshold. As a result, it is safe for gluten-free formulator to use in food products.

 

Read more →

Tomato Extension, Natural Tomato-like Texture, Viscosity, Thickness - Citri-Fi Citrus Fiber
March 28, 2024
No Comments
Dressings, Soups & Sauces, Fiberstar Blog

Pizza Expo 2024 – Top 5 Food Trends

The annual International Pizza Expo is a show that encompasses anything pizza related such as food, equipment and restaurant technology. Many food trends continue to fuel innovation in this category. Regardless of the trend, Citri-Fi® citrus fiber is a natural solution available to improve the texture, stability and nutrition of pizza sauces, crusts and toppings.

The International Pizza Expo is a trade show that takes place every year in lively Las Vegas. Thousands of pizzeria professionals fill the convention hall exploring the latest food, equipment and restaurant technology. The thrill begins at the entrance door where foodies are greeted with the warm savory aromas of pizza permeating the air. Besides the intoxicating smells, I captured several food trends while strolling the hall floor.

Dairy Alternative & Meat Substitute Options Still on Tap

Though the meat substitute segment slowed down over the past few years, this segment is still relevant in the pizza category. A handful of companies showcased their plant-based meat toppings including Conagra’s Gardein sausage on top of their pizza slices.

Alternatively, the dairy-free cheese segment offered significantly more options. One market leader, Daiya Foods, highlighted their plant-based cheese on pizza in addition to a few newer companies including NUMU and Plant Ahead. However, the one company that showed the most innovation was Myoko’s Creamery with their pourable plant-based mozzarella.

Citri-Fi citrus fiber plays a key role in creating high quality plant-based meat and cheeses. Due to this citrus fiber’s emulsification and heat stability, Citri-Fi can be used to create stable, creamy, dairy-free cheese sauces. In meat substitutes, the Citri-Fi 100 series binds water and emulsifies to create the succulence. The Citri-Fi TX series, which is a coarse particulate, creates the meat-like texture and firmness.

Natural, Clean and No Additives

Cheese makers touted their creamy authentic mozzarella. Flour millers highlighted their clean pizza crust mixes. And tomato sauce producers promoted their high-quality texture. Regardless of the food item, companies put emphasis on their bona fide pizza products.

Because many companies pride themselves on the natural aspects of their foods, they are cautious when substituting or including additional ingredients. However, there are options available to improve foods while still maintaining a natural and clean label which continues to be a hot food trend.

For instance, Citri-Fi citrus fiber can extend tomato paste up to 25% while maintaining the natural tomato-like texture of savory sauces like pasta sauce, pizza sauce and BBQ sauce. This natural ingredient not only improves the quality of the sauce, but it may also provide cost savings to the manufacturers since tomatoes remain a price sensitive ingredient due to availability.

Citri-Fi also binds water to prevent water migration during freeze/thaw conditions. As a result, pre-made refrigerated and frozen pizza crusts maintain their quality during handling and storage. And since Citri-Fi is non-allergenic, it is ideal for gluten-free pizza crusts which tend to dry out during shelf-life. Labeling options include citrus fiber, dried citrus pulp or citrus flour which resonate well in the natural and clean label markets.

A Plethora of Pizza Crust Options

Pizza crust has evolved into a variety of formats over the years. Toppings can be scattered on focaccia or flatbreads. Also, gluten-free continues to be an important food trend. A few companies exhibited their gluten-free crusts. For example, some crust bases were created using potatoes, cauliflower or rice flour. Many regions touted their style of pizza such as Chicago, Detroit, and New York type emphasizing their signature crusts.

However, one of the up-and-coming food trends in pizza crust is nutritionally enhanced. Fortifying crusts with more dietary fiber has been a tactic for several years now. Yet, today, some companies showcased their pizza crusts enriched with plant-based proteins.

Appetizers, Desserts and Beyond

The bulk of the expo focused on pizza. However, other companies featured non-pizza foods. For instance, a few booths sampled potato-based appetizers such as French fries and tater tots. Another food trend at the show was the ethnic appetizers. Handheld foods like Greek spanakopita and Hispanic empanadas unveiled their tasty savory and sweet fillings. And several companies showcased homemade pasta. However, some took it a step further and demonstrated ravioli filled with an exotic mushroom medley or creamy lobster ricotta. In filled-based foods, Citri-Fi binds water in the filling to improve yields and prevent blow-outs. Other interesting appetizer concepts included pizza bowls and pizza soups.

And a meal is not complete without a dessert. The predictable gelato and sorbetto littered the floor. Other companies showed their cannoli capabilities while some displayed cookies. One company, Otis Spunkmeyer, sampled their pizza cookies which were mouthwatering!

Sustainability and Eco-friendly 

With sustainability in the limelight, it was no surprise to see more than just an essence of this at the show. For example, several flour millers proudly claimed that they use regenerative practices. Regenerative agricultural practices is a comprehensive management program which involves tending to crops to boost better soil health.

Other eco-friendly mentions include foods that are USDA certified organic, Non-GMO Project certified and sustainably sourced. These food trends will continue to affect our food that is grown, produced and sold for years to come.

The food industry offers such food ingredients. Fiberstar, Inc. prides itself on claiming their citrus fibers are sustainably produced. For example, Citri-Fi is made from byproduct of the citrus juicing process. The process is free from chemical modifications. As a result, this upcycled citrus fiber contains the original composition of both insoluble and soluble fiber as Mother Nature intended. This citrus fiber retains high amounts of intact native pectin which sets itself apart from other citrus fibers on the market.

Other citrus fibers are created from the pectin extraction process which typically involves solvents and possibly other chemicals. The full functionality also may be lost due to the process, so to make their citrus fibers more functional like Citri-Fi, some companies add the pectin back into their citrus fiber.

Citri-Fi citrus fiber is non-GMO Project Certified and USDA certified organic now available.

For more information, please contact us.

Read more →

Citri-Fi Citrus Fiber Water Holding, Natural Emulsifier, Upcycled, Sustainable, Gelling Properties - Sustainability - Eco-friendly - Upcycled
November 8, 2023
No Comments
Fiberstar Blog

Top 5 Facts about Citri-Fi® Upcycled Citrus Fiber

For the past 20 years, Fiberstar has been the original pioneer of upcycled citrus fibers which originate from the citrus juicing industry. This superior citrus fiber provides water holding, emulsification and added viscosity which are not equal to other citrus fibers on the market. Citri-Fi® is produced using a clean process free from chemical modifications which supports a clean label. Not only does this citrus fiber contribute dietary fiber, but it also provides multiple functionalities that improve the stability, texture and mouthfeel of a variety of food and beverages.

The True Citrus Fiber Pioneers – Fiberstar, Inc.

The Fiberstar team takes pride in being the upcycling citrus fiber forerunners. For over 20 years, Fiberstar’s expertise revolved around creating value-added products from plant-based fibers, specifically citrus-based fibers. This technology evolved years before other food ingredient companies jumped on the bandwagon after noticing the value that citrus fiber brings to the food and beverage market.

The 20-year mastery in citrus fiber technology and dedicated passion built a solid foundation for converting side streams into value-added ingredients. Because of this, Fiberstar produced a line of citrus fibers that fit today’s paradigm – clean label, fiber enhancement, sustainability and cost savings. For instance, Citri-Fi citrus fiber supports a clean label and uses a clean process. The process preserves the fibrous content which contributes fiber to food and beverages. As a result, citrus fiber provides water holding and emulsification which aids in extending pricey foods like tomato paste, egg and animal meats to create cost savings.

After witnessing the value of citrus fiber when the clean label and upcycled trends surfaced, other ingredient suppliers followed suit by adding a citrus fiber to their portfolios. In the end, the industry recognizes Fiberstar as one of the first to put citrus fiber on the map in the food ingredient world.

Citrus Fibers are not Created Equal

Today, the market offers several citrus fibers. However, not all citrus fibers are created the same. Citri-Fi originates from byproduct of the citrus juicing industry. This upcycled citrus fiber’s highly efficient process is free of chemical modifications and solvents which keeps native pectin intact how Mother Nature intended. Thus, the intact pectin creates the superior functionality – water holding and emulsification. And the neutral flavor allows formulations to use higher levels if needed without flavor impact.

Other citrus fiber suppliers pull from their own pectin extraction which is subjected to solvents and potentially other chemicals. In other words, this process is not free of chemical modifications. The pectin is typically stripped in these processes leaving behind a residual amount which limits its functionality. This negatively affects the citrus fiber’s water holding capacity and emulsification power. Depending on the residual pectin present, some suppliers add pectin back to restore the full functionality which is an added step in the process. Additionally, other processes may not minimize the bitter notes that typically accompany citrus peel. As a result, these citrus fibers are limited to non-sensitive food applications.

Two Decades of Upcycling: Citri-Fi Citrus Fiber

Fiberstar’s technology and business started by creating and selling an upcycled citrus fiber over 20 years ago. This took place years before upcycled or sustainability became center stage topics. Though upcycling began life as a way to recoup dollars from the business decades ago, it was not until now when upcycling entered the limelight. This market asking for a circular economy with minimal environmental impact or zero waste spearheaded this. Fiberstar's upcycling model occurred before its time. And because of this, the company's expertise in upcycling spurred several product launches thru the years solving the market’s toughest formulation challenges. These ranged from oil, fat and egg reduction, plant-based meat textures, consumer friendly labeling and tomato paste extension.

Clean & Natural: The Process to Labeling

Clean label continues to be a hot topic today. However, clean goes beyond just the labeling. This subjective term also relates to how food is grown, harvested and processed. In the citrus fiber world, this equates to how citrus fiber is procured and re-purposed to benefit the market. As mentioned, Citri-Fi is produced from byproduct of the citrus juicing process. The spent fiber is then refined further by using methods free from chemical modifications and solvents. Other citrus fiber producers capture their citrus fiber from pectin extraction which typically uses solvents and other chemical modifications.

Citri-Fi is truly a clean upcycled citrus fiber from processing to the final product. Labeling options include citrus fiber, dried citrus pulp or citrus flour which all resonate well in the natural market. In addition to the clean story, this citrus fiber is non-GMO, allergen-free and contains no E-number. USDA certified organic citrus fiber, Citri-Fi 400, is now available.

Citrus Fiber is Multi-functional and Fiber Enhancing

Because citrus fiber contains the words "fiber", the market assumes that its primary role points to fortifying foods. However, different types of dietary fibers exist in the market. Some fibers fortify foods. And some of these dietary fibers provide prebiotic effects used to improve digestive health. Alternatively, some fibers deliver functional benefits in addition to fiber enrichment. For example, Citri-Fi provides water holding, emulsification and added viscosity.

These multi-functional upcycled citrus fibers, when used less than 1%, improve the stability, texture and nutrition of a variety of food and beverages. For instance, in baked goods Citri-Fi improves moisture retention which enhances the perception of freshness over time. Also, this natural fiber can reduce eggs, oil and/or fat while maintaining the full-fat mouthfeel. In sauces, Citri-Fi creates stability and improves the texture. For example, Citri-Fi extends tomato paste up to 25% while maintaining the natural tomato-like texture. And in plant-based beverages, this upcycled citrus fiber improves the full-body mouthfeel and stability without using other gums and stabilizers. In the end, Citri-Fi is a versatile multi-functional citrus fiber that improves dairy, dressings, processed meats, frozen foods, beverages, dairy alternatives and meat substitutes.

For more information about Citri-Fi citrus fiber or to order a sample please contact us.

Read more →

Meat Alternatives - Citri-Fi Citrus Fiber - Replace Methylcellulose, Meat-like Texture, Juiciness
September 29, 2023
No Comments
Fiberstar Blog, Meat Substitutes

Formulating Meat Substitutes: Citri-Fi® Portfolio

Meat substitutes require a variety of texturizers, stabilizers and gelling agents to create the meat-like texture, juiciness and binding. Some ingredients fell out of favor due to labeling and some like Citri-Fi® citrus fiber can clean up the label and enhance the quality when formulating meat substitutes.

Formulating meat substitutes has been an on-going challenge for every plant-based food producer. For instance, consumers expect the foods to taste exactly like animal-based products. Without that parity, consumers skip the re-purchase and gravitate back to their beloved fleshy bits. Though meat substitute products come close to their animal counterparts, they still fall short in taste and texture.

To create a meat substitute requires plant-based ingredients. For example, product developers use a protein base in addition to texturizers, stabilizers, and gelling agents. This hodgepodge of ingredients are needed to create the firm meat-like texture, succulence and binding. At the same time, consumers criticize not only the lengthy ingredient decks but the ingredients themselves. As a result, this opens up opportunity for more clean and natural options.

Fiberstar, Inc. offers a portfolio of natural citrus fibers which address the category's requirements. The key citrus fibers include Citri-Fi TX and Citri-Fi 100, 400 (organic) and 600 series. Below are articles and videos that provide guidance when formulating meat substitutes using citrus fiber.

 

Plant-based Foods Trends: Meat Substitutes are Still Hot

Though the market activity slowed down, developers continue to push out new and/or reformulated meat alternative foods.

BLOG: Natural Products Expo Trends: Plant-based Meat Formulations & Dairy Alternatives

 

Creating the Meat-like Texture in Plant-based Meats

The meat-like texture is signature to animal-based food products. As a result, meat alternatives need to simulate that firmness and chew. Citri-Fi TX citrus fiber is a large coarse granule that when used between 1 and 4% with a plant-based protein, enhances the meaty chew that consumers expect.

BLOG: Fiberstar, Inc. Launches a New Texturizing Citrus Fiber - Citri-Fi® TX

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

 

Formulating Meat Substitutes: Using the Citri-Fi Portfolio

In addition to Citri-Fi TX texturizing citrus fiber, Fiberstar also offers the Citri-Fi 100, 400 and 600 series. The 100 series is the flagship citrus fiber that provides both water holding and emulsification at less than 2% usage. The citrus fiber's composition binds the oil and water to generate the juiciness and succulence. The 400 series is USDA certified organic. And the neutral flavored 600 series provides additional viscosity which can be used at higher levels versus the 100 series. Both meat-like texture and juiciness can be achieved by using both the TX and the 100, 400 or 600 series together.

BLOG: Meat Substitute Foods: Creating Clean Labels using Citrus Fiber

BLOG: Meat Alternatives and Citrus Fiber FAQ

Video: How to: Making Meat Alternatives using Citrus Fiber

 

Clean Label Ingredients for Plant-based Meats

Because consumers scrutinize food labels, certain food ingredients like methylcellulose fell out of favor. This workhorse ingredient dominates the meat analog formulating world due to its functionality. Though there is no one-to-one replacement option yet, some products like citrus fiber may aid in creating clean label meat-free patties, sausages and hot dogs.

BLOG: “Finally” User-friendly, Methylcellulose-free Solutions for Meat Substitutes using Citri-Fi® Citrus Fiber

VIDEO: Citri-Fi® Citrus Fiber Creates Natural Meat Alternatives

If you have additional questions about formulating meat substitutes, please contact us. The technical team is available to support you.

Read more →

May 11, 2021
No Comments
Fiberstar Blog

Sustainable Food – Citri-Fi® Citrus Fiber the Eco-Friendly Choice

Sustainable food systems affect all touchpoints from farm to fork. From the beginning, Fiberstar produced Citri-Fi® upcycled citrus fiber from byproduct of the citrus juicing process using a method free from chemical modifications. This highly functional fiber not only reduces the use of ingredients impacting the environment, but also, cleans up food label declarations.

To define the term sustainability in a few sentences poses a massive challenge. However, in a recap, it boils down to managing resources, technology and money invested to balance the earth’s offerings and the current needs. Moreover, this also implies there is equilibrium between the “give and take” for the future generations. Today, businesses cherry pick aspects of this term to assure consumers they play a role in supporting sustainable food.

For instance, Fiberstar’s business started its life with an eco-friendly food process. Citrus growers harvest their fruit to be processed into citrus juice. This citrus juice then makes its way to retail and foodservice. At the same time, the other channels convert into higher valued products including the fibrous parts of the fruit. In the past, much of the fibrous components were used in lower valued markets but had huge potential due to its nutritional composition – fiber - and its underlying functional benefits.

The Sustainable Process

Fiberstar uses a patented method which turns byproduct of the citrus juicing process into highly functional citrus fiber which is called Citri-Fi. This process, which is free from chemical modifications, opens up the fiber to provide high water holding and emulsification properties. As a result, this upcycled citrus fiber is produced using a clean process unlike other alternatives sold in the marketplace.

And since the method retains the fiber’s wholistic form, it contains large amounts of intact pectin which gives its high functionality. Many other citrus fibers are byproduct of the pectin production. Because of this, the citrus fiber contains lower amounts of pectin content with lower functionality.

Bettering the Environment via Food

Using a sustainable process and producing eco friendly foods like Citri-Fi is one benefit. This citrus fiber also reduces the use of ingredients with higher environmental impact like fats, oils, eggs and animal dairy or meat protein. Citri-Fi replaces some or all of these ingredients in a variety of food products such as bakery, sauces and dairy foods. At the same time, this natural ingredient plays a key role in many dairy alternatives and meat substitutes. Citri-Fi provides excellent stability and texture. As a result, this citrus fiber supports environmentally friendly food by creating high quality animal-free alternatives.

Consumer Friendly Labeling

Highly functional citrus fibers like Citri-Fi are key at creating cleaner food labels. Citri-Fi’s labeling options include citrus fiber, dried citrus pulp or citrus flour which resonate well in the consumer markets. In addition, due to it high functionality, this natural citrus fiber replaces other ingredients to shorten label declarations. Citri-Fi also contributes dietary fiber. As a result, formulators benefit versus using other stabilizers, starches and chemical emulsifiers that do not qualify.

Sustainable food systems evolve and improve every day. Some companies are playing catch up with old processes or inefficient technologies. However, there are companies like Fiberstar which entered the market with a sustainable process and product offering from the beginning. As consumers learn more about environmental impacts occurring today, they will demand a more sustainable food system. This encompasses all the touch points between farm to fork. Citri-Fi citrus fiber is a wholistic food ingredient that continues to be a natural, sustainable and eco friendly option in the market.

To learn more about our sustainable practices, please contact us.

Read more →