Novel physical form of gluten, method for its manufacturing and its uses

摘要

The present invention relates to a novel physical form of gluten to be utilized as a self-binder for meat-like products excluding the need of egg albumen. The novel physical form contains an inert material bound within its matrix and is characterized by its net-like fibrous structure, which fibers have a diameter smaller than 2 mm diameter and a viscosity of at least 50,000 cps. The novel physical form of gluten is obtained by agitating vital wheat gluten with a reducing agent at a temperature below 70 DEG C. and incorporating during said agitation the solid inert material having a particle size below 5 cm diameter. A preferred type of said inert material is textured vegetable protein. The product obtained according to the invention can be successfully utilized in meat industry, enhancing the binding properties of the meat and improving its texture as an extender.