GuarNT (R) bland, a reduced odor stabilizer and soluble dietary fiber

The odor and flavor of guar gum may emanate from the breakdown of lipid, pr otein and/or isoflavones. Guar gum is a galactomannan isolated from the ann ual plant, Cyamopsis tetragonolobus, Guar is widely used as a thickening ag ent but due to its characteristic off-flavor and odor, its usage level has been limited. GuarNT bland, subjected to a proprietary process to reduce it s off-flavor and odor, offers the food formulator more options. GuarNT blan d can be subjected to a prehydration process to improve its dispersion and increase hydration rate and avoid lumping problems during large-scale produ ction. It is used as a thickening agent, suspending agent and a "natural" s ource of soluble dietary fiber (80% minimum, dry basis). Rheological data u sing a programmable Brookfield rheometer, hexanal levels (inder of grassy f lavor), PCA analyses (Aroma Scan, Foss NA) and sensory tests by trained pan elists were obtained. Prototype formulations using GuarNT Bland are availab le and usage levels permitted by CFR are included.