EPS in Baked Goods Assessing the Impact of EPS on the Quality of Baked Products: Exploring Gluten-Free and Healthier Alternatives
摘要
Exopolysaccharides (EPS) have gained significant attention in the baking industry due to their diverse functional benefits and ability to enhance the sensory and nutritional properties of bakery products. Generated through microorganisms, these biopolymers can now be utilized as clean label options in place of synthetic additives. Based on consumer need for clean label products, EPS naturally fits the bill being produced in its native organic form. As for EPS like xanthan gum, gellan gum, and inulin, they also have their fair share of benefits such as enhancing moisture retention, texture, shelf life, and even dough rheology. In addition, gluten-free products use EPS to replicate the emulsion and elasticity of gluten thus decreasing softness and enhancing the quality of the product. EPS enhances the quality of sugar, low sugar, and even sugar free baked goods by replacing the role of sugar, providing a great taste and avoiding unwanted texture alteration. Furthermore, EPS like inulin offers prebiotic benefits that enhance digestive health, making it possible to create low-calorie and low-fat baked goods without compromising quality. EPS is anticipated to grow as a sustainable material that meets the clean label trend and complies with global regulations because it offers functional properties without using any animal-derived ingredients or synthetic additives. As the business of baking moves forward, EPS can facilitate the formulation of functional, well-being supporting and sustainably sourced bakery products.