Ingredion, a global provider of ingredient solutions to diversified industries, has launched a new addition to its range of clean label texturizers: NOVATION Lumina functional native starches. These have been specifically designed for light-colored food applications with subtle flavors. The texturizers’ neutral color and flavor profile were designed to give manufacturers the ability to “maintain the most appealing qualities of their products even in the most delicate food applications.”

NOVATION Lumina functional native starches are endorsed by the company as delivering a viscosity and gel strength comparable to modified starches. They are touted as providing excellent freeze/thaw and shelf-life stability and have high process tolerance – making them ideal for products that undergo harsh processing conditions. Functional native starches are a solution that fits a broad range of product needs. Whether the goal is achieving a creamy texture, reformulating for a clean and simple label or simply improving the sensory appeal of delicate food applications, Ingredion’s array of texturizers is said to provide ample solutions.

Created for delicate food applications that demand mild flavors and colors, the functional native starches provide neutral flavor and color, enabling formulators to develop creamy, smooth textures without impacting light colors or delicate flavors of finished products. The starches are ideal for a wide range of food applications, including yogurts, dairy desserts, custards, dairy drinks such as drinkable yogurts and flavored milks, white sauces including cooking creams and ready meals, dressings, soups and fruit preps. 

Of the countries that have provisions in place to regulate the term “natural,” NOVATION Lumina’s functional native starches are said to meet the criteria of natural food ingredients in the UK, France and Ireland, as well as associated EU legislation and the global ISO Technical Specification (ISO/TS 19657). 

The addition of NOVATION Lumina to Ingredion’s portfolio of clean co-texturizers follows last month’s launch of NOVATION Indulge 2920 starch, a corn-based starch which reportedly can support lower-fat and lower-calorie products.

Functional native starches with label appeal
More consumers are shopping for clean and simple labels globally than ever before. According to reports by market researcher Innova Market Insights, a 13 percent CAGR in global food and beverage launches with a clean label claim was observed in 2013-2017. Products with this type of positioning accounted for 29 percent of global NPD launches in 2017. 

In an Ingredion proprietary study, “natural,” “all natural” and “no artificial ingredients” claims were found the most influential factor in consumer purchasing decisions. 

Ingredion research also reveals that flours and starches rank in the top ten of the most consumer-accepted ingredients. Labeled simply as “corn starch,” NOVATION Lumina functional native starches are also gluten-free, non-GMO and do not require allergen labeling. Manufacturers should carefully consult regulations specific to all target markets, the company notes.