What is LACTEM Emulsifier in Bread

Date:2024-12-13

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LACTEM emulsifier in bread is great for achieving the perfect texture, structure, and shelf life. It is widely used in bread production, offering numerous functional benefits. In this article, we will explore what LACTEM is, its role in bread production, and how it helps create the high-quality bread consumers expect.

A Brief Introduction To Lactem Emulsifier

LACTEM stands for Lactic Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides (E472b), a food-grade emulsifier derived from combining mono- and diglycerides with lactic acid. It is commonly used in baking and other food applications due to its excellent emulsifying, stabilizing, and dough-conditioning properties.

This emulsifier is typically found as a white or slightly yellow powder or bead. Its hydrophilic and lipophilic balance (HLB) makes it particularly suitable for applications where fat and water need to be mixed uniformly, such as in bread production.

LACTEM in bread

How Does LACTEM Work in Bread?

In bread production, the structure and quality of the final product depend on the proper alignment of gluten proteins, starches, and fats. Here’s how LACTEM E472b contributes to bread-making:

1. Dough Stabilization
LACTEM helps stabilize dough by interacting with gluten proteins. This strengthens the dough's structure, making it more elastic and easier to handle during processing. It reduces stickiness and improves machinability, which is particularly important in automated bread production lines.

2. Improved Aeration
Emulsifiers like LACTEM aid in creating uniform air bubbles within the dough. This enhances aeration during mixing and fermentation, resulting in a finer and more consistent crumb structure in the baked bread.

3. Moisture Retention
LACTEM helps retain moisture in bread, keeping it soft and fresh for longer. By binding water molecules, it prevents the bread from drying out quickly, extending shelf life and reducing waste.

4. Enhanced Fat Distribution
LACTEM emulsifier ensures that fats are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This contributes to a softer texture, improved mouthfeel, and a rich, indulgent taste in the final product.

Main Benefits of LACTEM E472b in Bread Production

Extended Shelf Life: By improving moisture retention and delaying staling, LACTEM helps bread stay fresh for longer periods.
Consistent Quality: The emulsifier ensures uniform mixing of ingredients, resulting in consistent texture and flavor in every batch.
Cost-Effectiveness: Improved dough stability and machinability reduce production waste and downtime in industrial bread-making facilities.
Clean Label Options: As a commonly accepted additive, LACTEM aligns with clean-label requirements in many markets.

Applications of LACTEM Emulsifier in Bread

While LACTEM is most commonly used in standard white and wheat bread, its applications extend to a variety of baked goods:
Soft Breads: Enhances softness and prolongs freshness.
Artisan Loaves: Provides consistent texture without compromising the traditional feel.
Frozen Dough: Improves freeze-thaw stability, maintaining dough quality during storage and baking.
Gluten-Free Bread: Acts as a stabilizer and aerating agent in gluten-free recipes where structural integrity is a challenge.

Is LACTEM Safe?

LACTEM additive is approved for use in food products by regulatory authorities such as the FDA and EFSA. It is considered safe when used within the prescribed limits. Bread manufacturers often use it as part of a compound emulsifier blend to optimize performance and achieve desired results.

Final Thoughts

LACTEM food emulsifier has become an indispensable ingredient in bread production, offering superior dough stability, enhanced softness, and extended shelf life. Whether you're producing artisanal loaves or large-scale commercial bread, LACTEM ensures consistent quality and consumer satisfaction.

CHEMSINO has been involved in the research, manufacturing, and supply of various food emulsifiers for almost 20 years. Among them, Lactic Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides (LACTEM) is one of our star products. Reach out to us today to get best price.

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