Liquid Glucose is an aqueous solution of nutritive saccharide obtained by starch hydrolysis, by using Corn and Rice as raw material, which is purified and concentrated to required solids.
Advance Information*
Introduction
Liquid Glucose, also known as Glucose Syrup, is an indispensable ingredient in the food and beverage industry due to its versatile applications and beneficial properties. It is a clear and viscous liquid obtained from starch hydrolysis of raw materials such as corn and rice. This process results in a nutritive saccharide solution, which is then further purified and concentrated to the required levels of solid content. The product, commonly referred to as Hydrolysis Starch Liquid Glucose, serves as a vital sweetener in numerous applications, offering not just sweetness but also functional benefits like texture improvement, moisture retention, and stabilization in various consumables.
Production Process
The production of Liquid Glucose begins with the hydrolysis of starch, sourced predominantly from corn and rice. This hydrolysis process breaks down the starch into simpler glucose molecules. Here are the key stages involved:
- Starch Slurry Preparation: Starch derived from corn or rice is washed, milled, and mixed with water to form a slurry.
- Gelatinization and Liquefaction: The slurry is heated to gelatinize the starch granules, making them easier to break down. Enzymatic or acid hydrolysis is then employed to liquefy the starch into shorter chains of glucose units.
- Saccharification: During this stage, further enzymatic action converts the liquefied starch into a mixture rich in glucose and other reducing sugars.
- Purification: The glucose syrup undergoes several purification steps, including filtration, decolorization, and deionization, to remove impurities and achieve a high-purity product.
- Concentration: The purified glucose solution is then concentrated to the desired solids content, typically ranging from 70% to 85%.
- Packaging: The final liquid glucose product is packed into containers suitable for storage and transportation, ensuring it remains uncontaminated and ready for use in various applications.
Properties and Composition
Liquid Glucose exhibits several key properties that make it invaluable in the food and beverage industry:
- Appearance: Clear, viscous liquid with a slight yellowish tint.
- Taste: Mildly sweet, with a clean flavor profile.
- Solids Content: Typically ranges between 70% to 85%.
- DE (Dextrose Equivalent): Ranges from 20 to 47, depending on the level of hydrolysis.
- Viscosity: High viscosity at room temperature, reducing with heat.
- Solubility: Fully soluble in water, forming clear solutions.
Its composition predominantly includes glucose, with small quantities of maltose and higher saccharides, along with water. The exact composition varies based on the level of hydrolysis and the raw material used.
Applications
Confectionery
In confectionery, Liquid Glucose is a key ingredient used in:
- Hard Candies: Prevents crystallization of sugar, providing a smooth and clear product.
- Chewing Gum: Improves texture and chewiness.
- Chocolate: Enhances viscosity and prevents sugar recrystallization.
Baking
For bakeries, Liquid Glucose is invaluable in:
- Breads and Cakes: Enhances texture, moisture retention, and extends shelf life.
- Pastries and Cookies: Improves spreadability and provides a desirable mouthfeel.
Beverages
In the beverage industry, Liquid Glucose serves as a sweetener and stabilizer:
- Soft Drinks: Adds sweetness and viscosity.
- Juices: Enhances mouthfeel and balances acidity.
- Alcoholic Beverages: Fermentable sugars facilitate alcohol production.
Dairy
Liquid Glucose enhances various dairy products:
- Ice Cream: Improves texture, prevents crystallization, and provides a smooth consistency.
- Yogurts: Enhances the sweetness and mouthfeel.
Pharmaceuticals
In pharmaceuticals, Liquid Glucose is used in:
- Syrups: Provides an easily soluble sweetening agent.
- Medicines: Used as a base in tonics and elixirs.
Personal Care and Cosmetics
In the personal care industry, Liquid Glucose is a common ingredient in:
- Skin Care Products: Acts as a humectant and thickener.
- Hair Care Products: Acts as a conditioning agent.
Advantages and Benefits
Functional Benefits
- Non-Crystallizing: Improves the texture and stability of confectionery products by preventing sugar crystallization.
- Humectant Properties: Helps retain moisture in baked goods, prolonging freshness.
- Viscosity Control: Adds body and texture to a variety of products, from beverages to personal care items.
Nutritional Benefits
Although Liquid Glucose is predominantly used for its functional properties, it also offers some nutritional value