J. Rettenmaier & Söhne (JRS), a global manufacturer of insoluble dietary fibre, has opened a new production plant for colloidal systems in Weissenborn near Dresden, Germany. The factory will produce colloidal microcrystalline cellulose (Vivapur MCG) along with a range of wheat and oat fibre colloidal types (Vitacel, WFG and HFG).
The production capacity is currently at approx. 4,000 metric tons and there is potential to expand the operation further.
Colloidal systems are used extensively in dairy products, especially ice cream. Characteristics include high stability, inert behaviour and independence from temperature, pH value or other influences as well as taste-neutrality. JRS claims that extensive studies have been conducted in association with the DIL (Deutsches Institut für Lebensmitteltechnik - German Institute for Food Technology), to indentify the multi-functionality of colloidal systems.
The functionality of the colloidal structure is based on the formation of a three-dimensional network that acts in an emulsion and texture-stabilising manner. This makes the substitution of fats and oils possible, prevents syneresis, controls the size of ice crystals and stabilises foam.
JRS will displaying its products at FIE Frankfurt from 18 to 20 November 2003. For further information contact the company at: food@jrs.de.