Securing steady supplies of ingredients is an ongoing concern for food manufacturers. One ingredient that perennially falls into the sourcing spotlight—as a result of both periodic shortages and ongoing high demand—is gum arabic, also known as gum acacia.
The risk of not having a suitable replacement in the event of a gum arabic supply shortfall can sometimes prove a deal breaker when manufacturers consider pursing certain applications that dictate the gum’s use. As Mar Nieto, Ph.D., senior principal scientist, TIC Gums, notes, until recently, a suitable replacement for gum arabic that effectively binds sugar in confections just wasn’t available.
However, TIC Gums has now developed a cost-effective alternate gum system that can replace gum arabic in confections. Its patent-pending TicaPAN™ coating system, composed of maltodextrin, cellulose gum and corn starch, has been standardized to display the same viscosity as a 35% gum arabic solution up to 50% concentration in water. “TicaPAN pricing is less than gum arabic,” says Nieto, “and with the increasing cost and tighter supply of arabic, it is a perfect time for this new product.” A non-GMO version is also available.
The powder-based system replaces gum arabic in many types of confections when coating items like nuts, chocolate pieces, malt balls and different types of oil-based centers. The system ensures proper hard-panning, as well as binds and strengthens shell coatings that contain sugar or sugar alcohols. Nieto notes that the TicaPAN system dries as fast as, or faster than, gum arabic and has comparable crystallization and binding properties—and resultant texture—in pan coatings. It yields a strong shell, providing good crunch. Use levels range from 2% to 4% of the syrup recipe.
Nieto notes that the system is sugar-free, and a noncariogenic claim might be in its future. “In vitro testing is currently underway to validate the cariogenic status of the blends,” he says.
Customization of gum systems is always an option. “We try to anticipate needs with our R&D formulations,” says Nieto, “but are always willing to work one-on-one to make the product function uniquely for our customer.”
TIC Gums, Inc.
10552 Philadelphia Road
White March, MD 21162
Phone: 410/273-7300
800/899-3953
Fax: 410/273-6469
E-mail: info@ticgums.com
Website: ticgums.com
