Ingredion has launched a new addition to its range of clean label texturizers.

NOVATION Lumina functional native starches are said to be specifically designed for light-coloured applications with subtle flavours.

The texturizers’ neutral colour and flavour profile give manufacturers the ability to maintain the most appealing qualities of their products – even in the most delicate food applications, Ingredion says.

“The launch of NOVATION Lumina functional native starches positions Ingredion to help our customers achieve consumer-preferred label claims as we expand the company’s clean and simple ingredients portfolio to new spaces and rising heights,” said Jim Low, Ingredion’s vice president and general manager, Ingredient Solutions.

According to the company, NOVATION Lumina functional native starches deliver viscosity and gel strength comparable to modified starches, provide excellent freeze/thaw and shelf life stability, and have high process tolerance – making them ideal for products that undergo harsh processing conditions.

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

“NOVATION Lumina functional native starches enable manufacturers to answer consumer demand for natural’ products with the colours and flavours consumers have come to expect, without compromising texture and performance,” said Patrick O’Brien, Ingredion’s regional business manager for Clean & Simple Ingredients in the U.S. and Canada.

Ingredion research reveals that flours and starches rank in the top 10 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.

NOVATION Lumina functional native starches are said to provide neutral flavour and colour, enabling formulators to develop creamy, smooth textures without impacting light colours or delicate flavours of finished products. The starches are claimed to be ideal for a wide range of food applications, including yogurts, dairy desserts and custards, dairy drinks such as drinkable yogurts and flavoured milks, white sauces including cooking creams and ready meals, dressings, soups (ready-to-eat) and fruit preps.

NOVATION Lumina functional native starches are produced using Ingredion’s proprietary technology. The launch represents the first of many product introductions to be based on this proprietary platform.