Cereal Foods World 43(5):361-364

Full-text article: Publication no. W-1998-0427-01F

Curdlan: A New Functional Beta-Glucan. V. Jezequel. Takeda Vitamin & Food USA, Inc., Orangeburg, New York. Copyright 1998 American Association of Cereal Chemists, Inc.

Curdlan is the generic name for a beta-(1,3)-D-glucan that was approved as a food additive in December 1996. Beta-glucans are insoluble fiber and therefore have no caloric value. Insoluble fibers have been shown to prevent intestinal cancer and to enhance the immune response. So far, curdlan is the most concentrated form of beta-glucan. The original patented manufacturing process involves fermentation of a glucose media by Agrobacterium biovar 1. Curdlan is the third microorganism-fermented polysaccharide to be approved by the FDA. This hydrocolloid can be a valuable textural agent in applications such as low-fat meats, vegetarian dishes, reduced-fat dressings, sauces, and gravies. Its gels are very stable over a wide pH range and under severe food processing conditions. The gels are also bland in taste, color, and odor, which is valuable in certain food systems such as dairy applications and desserts.