Research Pushes the Right Buttons - Mushrooms are the New Fat (2/26/2008)

Scientists have discovered a new method to replace fat in food products

University of Birmingham scientists have discovered a new method to replace fat in food products.

A team at the University of Birmingham's Centre for Formulation Engineering is developing a microstructure - an air filled emulsion coated in protein - that resembles the physical properties of a fat globule. The protein is hydrophobin which comes from mushrooms. This new structure could replace fat in foods such as salad dressings, mayonnaise, sauces and even spreads and margarines.

The technique means that up to 50% of the fat would be removed from a product and replaced with the new structure, which is made in such a way that it gives the product the correct texture. The remaining fat carries the fatty flavours and aroma. This would mean that the consumer would be able to enjoy a healthier food product, but still experience the same fatty taste and texture.

The hydrophobins used for the new structures are fascinating molecules, but they have the added advantage, especially for use in food, of being totally natural and commonly found in life. Suitable proteins can be easily and safely extracted from inside the common white cap mushrooms that are already frequently eaten.

Professor Ian Norton from the University of Birmingham says, 'Food manufacturers are under increasing pressure to reduce the amount of fat in their products. We have found that we can use existing materials to change the properties of some food stuffs in a way that is acceptable to the consumer.'

Dr Phil Cox, co-investigator, says 'It is hoped that, by making indulgent foods more healthy, the consumer will be able to continue to enjoy those foods that are currently seen as bad for you, without worrying about the fat content'.

The team are also working with colleagues at Bangor University on the psychological issues surrounding eating and are particularly interested in healthy indulgence how to make products which are healthy but still nice to eat, or even indulgent, and then how to get the consumers to accept the concept Professor Norton continues, 'New technologies and changing the make-up of the foods we eat are ways of tackling the obesity problem, but public attitudes towards food consumption must be addressed if we are to stop this epidemic in its tracks.'

Note: This story has been adapted from a news release issued by the University of Birmingham

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