Starch is widely used in the food industry and plays an important role in the production of sausage, meat products, and jam.
Functions in Sausage and Meat Products
- Increase viscosity and gelation: Starch can absorb water and form a gel, which helps sausages and meat products maintain their shape, prevent moisture loss.
- Improve water retention: Starch can absorb water, making sausages and meat products more juicy and extending their shelf life.
- Reduce cost: Starch is relatively inexpensive and can be used as a filler to reduce the production cost of sausages and meat products.
Commonly Used Types of Starch:
- Cornstarch: High viscosity and good transparency, suitable for making sausages, ham, and other meat products.
- Wheat starch: High gluten content, suitable for making meat馅, meatballs, and other meat products.
- Potato starch: High viscosity and good transparency, suitable for making sausages, casings, and other meat products.
Functions in Jam
- Increase thickness: Starch can increase the thickness of jam, making it more viscous and easier to spread.
- Prevent crystallization: Starch can inhibit the crystallization of sugar in jam, extending its shelf life.
- Improve stability: Starch can help jam maintain a uniform texture and prevent layering.
Commonly Used Types of Starch:
- Cornstarch: High viscosity and good transparency, suitable for making various jams.
- Tapioca starch: High viscosity and good transparency, suitable for making jelly, canned food, etc.
- Potato starch: High viscosity and good transparency, suitable for making jam, juice, etc.
Precautions for Use
- Starch should be dissolved in cold water before use to avoid agglomeration.
- The amount of starch added should be moderate, as too much will affect the taste and flavor of the food.
- Different types of starch have different properties and should be selected according to different needs.
Conclusion
Starch plays an important role in the production of sausage, meat products, and jam, and can improve the food's texture, taste, flavor, and shelf life.