Pregel Functional Flours
Pregelatinized (often shortened to pregel) functional flours are flours that have been precooked and dried, typically through drum drying, spray drying, or extrusion. This process gelatinizes the starches within the flour, meaning the starch granules have been ruptured and made soluble in cold water. As a result, pregel flours can thicken, bind, and stabilize without the need for heat.
Key Functional Properties
Instant thickening – They hydrate and develop viscosity in cold or room-temperature water, unlike raw flours.
Improved water binding – Useful for moisture retention and texture stability.
Enhanced freeze-thaw stability – Helps prevent syneresis (water separation) in frozen or refrigerated foods.
Improved mouthfeel and texture – Adds smoothness and body to formulations.
Clean-label functionality – As they are derived from natural grains or pulses, they can replace chemically modified starches while maintaining performance.
Our Pregel Functional Flours
Typical Uses and Applications of Pregel Functional Flours:
Pregel functional flours are widely used across food categories, including:
- Bakery and Snacks
Improves dough hydration, structure, and softness.
Enhances binding in gluten-free products.
Adds expansion and crispness in extruded or puffed snacks. - Soups, Sauces, and Gravies
Acts as an instant thickener and stabilizer.
Provides smooth, consistent texture without lumping.
Enhances suspension of particulates. - Ready-to-Eat and Convenience Foods
Stabilizes fillings, dressings, and instant mixes.
Ensures viscosity and stability in cold-processed foods. - Meat, Fish, and Plant-Based Products
Improves binding and juiciness in patties, sausages, or meat analogs.
Retains moisture and enhances texture during cooking and storage. - Beverages and Nutritional Products
Provides mouthfeel and suspension for powdered drinks, protein shakes, and smoothies.
Adds natural viscosity without off-flavors. - Confectionery and Dairy Alternatives
Improves creaminess and stability in puddings, yogurts, and plant-based dairy alternatives.
In short, pregel functional flours act as natural, clean-label performance ingredients that provide viscosity, stability, and improved texture — all without heat activation.