Using USAXS to predict the under-tempered chocolate microstructure

Chocolate microstructure: A comprehensive review

Chocolate is a food with complex microstructure properties. In this study, chocolate surface and internal microstructures are discussed considering final product quality and stability. In addition, the effects of the solids and continuous phase components and the interactions between them, and also process effects on the microstructure were reviewed. Irregularities in the internal microstructure affect the surface and cause problems such as unstable cocoa butter crystals, a whitish, streaky appearance, chewy especially fat bloom in this layer and in general, a low quality and sensory in final product. Optimization of the particle size and cooling conditions of the solids is required to modify the surface topography for roughness and pores morphology. Reducing surface porosity can increase fat bloom resistance. For this purpose, reducing surface hydrophobicity by considering proteins with di-sulfide bonds and their concentrations and the use of different bulk sweeteners should be taken into consideration. The morphology of the surface microstructure may be used for product characterization as well as to investigate the environmental conditions exposed during processing and storage. It should be noted that chocolate has a three-phase microstructural system, considering the air present in the gaps at the interface. The importance of the third phase for continuous phase mobility is critical. Additionally, this phase affects behavior in the oral cavity due to melting and release of volatile components.

Chocolate Ganaches: Formulation, Processing and Stability in View of the New Production Trends

This review aims at the current trends in chocolate ganache production and recipe formulation. Ganache is a blend of chocolate, sugars, dairy, and other ingredients commonly used to fill pralines, pastries, etc. In spite of ganache's popularity in the food industry, a comprehensive review focused on the application of functional substances and ganache processing has not been discussed in the scientific literature. This review addresses the new ways of applying special ingredients, such as vegetable fats and seeds, flavor infusions, oleogels, hemp products, etc., which can be added to the ganache matrix to achieve desirable properties. In particular, the application of sterols and sterol esters as functional substances of oleogels seems to be a very promising method, enhancing the ganache fat profile. The elevated caloric content that is characteristic of ganache can be substantially attenuated through the application of hydrocolloids and/or fruit-based components, thereby offering the potential for caloric reduction without compromising on taste. The various alterations to ganache formulations by the application of natural substances offer a large base for the development of novel ganache variants and relevant food products.