Casein Hydrolyzed |
(Thickening Agent) Casein, the principal protein in milk, is a nutritious protein containing adequate amounts of all the essential amino acids. People who are allergic to casein should read food labels carefully, because the additive is used in some “non-dairy” and “vegetarian” foods. A word about “Partially Hydrogenated” Oils: It is now known that the process of hydrogenation creates “trans fatty acids” (TFAs), which are toxic entities that enter cell membranes, block utilization of essential fatty acids (EFAs) and impede cell functionality. TFAs also cause a rise in blood cholesterol. These substances are not present in natural oils. Trans fat, which is also called hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated vegetable oil. Trans fat is found in margarine and shortening and foods — such as cookies, crackers and other commercially baked goods — made with these ingredients. Trans fat raises LDL cholesterol and lowers high-density lipoprotein (HDL), the “good” cholesterol. Hydrolyzed: A protein obtained from various foods (like soybeans, corn or wheat), then broken down into amino acids by a chemical process called acid hydrolysis. Hydrolyzed plant or vegetable protein is used as a flavor enhancer in numerous processed foods like soups, chilis, sauces, stews and some meat products like frankfurters. Hydrolyzation of protein inevitably creates some (processed) free glutamic acid (MSG). Manufacturers are acutely aware that many consumers would prefer not to have MSG in their food. Some manufacturers have responded by using “clean labels,” i.e., labels that contain only ingredient names they think consumers will not recognize as containing MSG — names such as “hydrolyzed soy protein.” Others advertise “No MSG,” “No MSG Added,” or “No Added MSG,” even though their products contain MSG ref: truthinlabeling.org source: www.healthfinder.gov/news |
SPECIFIC COMPOUNDS
Sodium phosphate may refer to any of three specific compounds, although it most often refers to trisodium phosphate (Na3PO4) unless otherwise specified. Sodium dihydrogen phosphate (NaH2PO4) may also be called monosodium phosphate. Disodium hydrogen phosphate (Na2HPO4) may also be called disodium phosphate.
TEXTURIZER
Disodium hydrogen phosphate can serve as a texturizer and texture-modifying agent. This form of sodium phosphate may be added for the purpose of changing the appearance or feel of the food. A texturizing agent is frequently added to increase the shelf life of the food.
EMULSIFIER
All three forms of sodium phosphate can serve as an emulsifier. An emulsifier is added to allow for the uniform dispersion of two or more ingredients that would otherwise be immiscible. The most common specific purpose of an emulsifier is to prevent oil from separating from the rest of the mixture. Sodium phosphate is commonly added as an emulsifying agent to processed cheeses, processed meats and canned soups.
LEAVENING AGENT
Sodium phosphate may be added to a baked product to help the dough rise. The most common uses of sodium phosphate as a leavening agent are in batter for breaded chicken or fish and commercially sold cakes.
SURFACE-ACTIVE AGENTS
Sodium phosphates can also be added to food to change the surface tension of the liquid components of the food. This is typically done to serve as a foaming or whipping agent.
NEUTRALIZING AGENT
Sodium phosphate can be added to food to keep it from becoming too acidic or alkaline.
NUTRIENT
Sodium phosphate can be added to food as a dietary supplement. These compounds provide phosphates which are an essential nutrient.