What You Need to Know
Extrusion technology involves mixing plant-based proteins with water and other ingredients, then forcing the mixture through a die to create a texture similar to meat. This process can be used to create a variety of plant-based meat alternatives, including burgers, sausages, and chicken nuggets. The use of starches, plant-based fats, and emulsifiers helps to bind and stabilize the mixture.
Steps
- 1.
Beyond Burger (United States): Creates fibrous meat-like texture
- 2.
OmniPork (Hong Kong): Mimics pork fat marbling
- 3.
Impossible Sausage (Global): Achieves snap and juiciness
The Science
Primary Reaction
Denaturation of proteins and gelatinization of starches