Liquid glucose is sugar that’s been turned into a thick, syrupy liquid to make cooking and baking easier. It is typically a derivative of Maize starch. Firstly, starch is extracted from maize plants and then treated with enzymes that break it down into smaller molecules. This solution is then refined and concentrated to increase its density to achieve the end product. The enzymatic process of breaking down starch to make simple sugars like glucose, is called Starch Hydrolysis.
Various alternatives were employed in cooking and food manufacturing earlier but with the advent of industrial food processing, liquid glucose became more widely available and standardised, leading to its prevalent use in various food products. Using liquid glucose comes with a whole range of advantages that are listed below:
Moisture Retention: Liquid glucose has humectant properties, meaning it attracts and retains moisture. In baked goods, this can result in a softer texture and increased shelf life by preventing drying.
Prevention of Crystallisation: Crystallisation of the sugars leads to an undesirable texture, flavour loss and/or appearance but the presence of glucose interferes with sugar crystallisation, resulting in a smoother product.
Colour and Texture enhancement : Liquid glucose impart a rich, caramelised hue to barbecue sauces, glazes, and caramel sauces, making them visually appealing. It also contributes to a smooth and velvety mouthfeel in sauces, enhancing their overall sensory experience.
Increased shelf life : Liquid glucose can help extend the shelf life of sauces by retaining moisture and preventing drying out or spoilage. This is especially beneficial for commercially produced sauces that need to maintain quality over time.
Yeast Food: In baking, food grade liquid glucose can serve as a source of readily fermentable sugars for yeast, helping to promote fermentation and leavening in bread, rolls, and other yeast-raised products.
Altogether, liquid glucose plays a crucial role in the food industry as a multifunctional ingredient that contributes to the taste, texture, appearance, and shelf stability of a wide variety of food products. Bluecraft Agro is the leading manufacturer and supplier of Liquid Glucose across the world. We are proudly Indian and rank amongst the top Liquid Glucose manufacturers, producing high quality yet economical food grade liquid glucose that you need to achieve the desired taste, texture and longevity in your food products that will win over your customers and make them come back for more.