How does Propylene glycol, which is widely used in the food industry, play the role of a moisturizer and extend the shelf life of food?
Publish Time: 2024-11-25
Propylene glycol is widely used as a moisturizer in the food industry. Its excellent moisturizing properties and ability to extend the shelf life of food are mainly reflected in the following aspects:
1. Moisturizing properties
Hygroscopicity: Propylene glycol has good hygroscopicity and can absorb moisture from the environment and retain it in its molecular structure, thereby preventing food from drying out due to water loss.
Moisturizing durability: Propylene glycol has a long-lasting moisturizing effect and can maintain the moisture content of food for a long time, preventing food from deteriorating due to water evaporation.
2. Extending shelf life
Inhibiting microbial growth: Propylene glycol inhibits the growth of microorganisms, especially those that rely on water for reproduction, by maintaining the water activity of food. This helps to extend the shelf life of food.
Preventing water loss: During processing and storage, water in food is easily lost, causing the food to become hard and lose flavor and texture. Propylene glycol extends shelf life by preventing water loss and maintaining the softness and taste of foods.
3. Specific applications
Baked foods: In baked foods such as bread and biscuits, propylene glycol is used as a humectant to prevent the product from drying out during storage, maintaining softness and taste.
Frozen foods: The application of propylene glycol in frozen foods helps reduce the formation of ice crystals, prevents water loss during thawing, and maintains the freshness and texture of foods.
Meat and dairy products: In these products, propylene glycol is used as a humectant to prevent water loss and maintain the juiciness and taste of the products.
4. Safety and compliance
Food safety: Propylene glycol is safe as a food additive and has been recognized and widely used by food regulations in many countries and regions.
Restrictions on use: In food, the amount of propylene glycol used is strictly controlled to ensure that it will not have adverse effects on human health at the recommended concentration.
5. Synergistic effect with other ingredients
Cooperation with other additives: Propylene glycol is usually used in combination with other food additives (such as antioxidants, preservatives, etc.) to work together to preserve the freshness and quality of food and exert a synergistic effect.
Propylene glycol is widely used as a humectant in the food industry due to its excellent hygroscopicity and long-lasting moisturizing effect, effectively extending the shelf life of food. It ensures that food remains fresh and high-quality during processing, storage and transportation by preventing water loss, inhibiting microbial growth and maintaining the softness and taste of food. At the same time, the safety and compliance of Propylene glycol are also strictly regulated and widely recognized.
