Your Complete Guide to Wheat Starch in the Philippines: Its Uses, Value, and More

Introduction

Wheat starch is a versatile ingredient in various dishes, from baked goods to soups and sauces. It has a neutral taste and a powdery texture that works well in many recipes.

Because of its various applications in food and processing industries, many companies partner with a reliable wheat starch wholesale supplier in the Philippines like Wills International Sales Corporation, to ensure a high quality and consistent supply. If you want to learn the basics of wheat starch, you have come to the right place.

Wheat Starch, Explained

What is wheat starch? Well, it is a carbohydrate derived from wheat and a staple for the human diet. It is made by separating the starch from the protein and other elements of wheat flour.

Wheat starch is made up of two main components: amylose and amylopectin. These two components are responsible for the unique properties of this powdery substance, such as its ability to thicken, bind, and retain moisture.

Wheat starch thickens food through retrogradation and gelatinization. When you add wheat starch to food and heat it, the dish absorbs water and gets thick and clear. But when it gets too thick, it starts to thin out again. Afterward, it gets thick and cloudy when it cools down, eventually forming a gel. The strength of the gel depends on the starch you use and how much of it you add.

Primary Uses of Wheat Starch

Wheat starch is mainly used as a thickening agent. However, it also works as a stabilizer, emulsifier, and glazing agent. Some food companies even use it as an alternative to fat.

There are two types of wheat starch, namely:

• Native Wheat Starch – This is the unaltered form of wheat starch. It is a fine, white powder insoluble in cold water or alcohol. Native starch is usually used in food products that require a thickening agent, such as sauces, soups, and desserts.

• Modified Wheat Starch – This is a chemically or physically modified starch. It has better stability, texture, and thickening properties, making it suitable for other applications, like encapsulating and gelling.

Things To Consider When Purchasing Wheat Starch in Bulk

If you plan to buy wheat starch in the Philippines in bulk, you must consider several significant factors to ensure you get the best quality and value for your money. This includes:

Ingredient List

First, read the label carefully before making any purchase. It should list any additional ingredients or additives that may be present in your wheat starch. This can help you avoid any unwanted surprises later.

Gluten

If you are cooking, baking, or processing gluten-free food, ensure your wheat starch doesn’t have the very ingredient you’re trying to avoid. You should also confirm if it has been processed in a gluten-free facility through thorough research.

Freshness

Stale or expired wheat starch can result in a poor-quality product. That said, always check the date on the packaging and avoid purchasing it if it is close to or past its expiration date.

Shelf Life

Unlike wheat flour, which you can store for extended periods, wheat starch has a shorter shelf life. Be sure to ask your wheat starch wholesale supplier in the Philippines about their product’s shelf life. Remember that it will also depend on your storage conditions.

Storage

It is crucial to consider where and how you will store your bulk wheat starch. Ideally, keep it in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and any potential sources of moisture. If you plan to store it for a long time, consider placing it in a sealed container to prevent unwanted odors or contamination.

Food Products That Require the Use of Wheat Starch

Wheat starch is a valuable ingredient in many of our favorite food products, including:

Sauces

Wheat starch is commonly used as a thickener for gravies, stews, curries, and other sauces. Not only does it give these sauces a smooth and consistent texture, but it also improves their flavor.

Snacks and Biscuits

Have you ever wondered what makes most snacks and biscuits crisp and crunchy? It is all thanks to wheat starch. This ingredient also prevents these food products from becoming stale.

Baked Goods

Wheat starch is commonly used to improve the texture and consistency of baked goods, such as bread, pastries, and cakes. It absorbs moisture and gives these goods a soft and tender texture.

Asian Food

Did you know wheat starch is a popular ingredient in many Asian cuisines? It is usually used as a thickener for soups. In addition, it helps bind the ingredients of dumplings and noodles together for a soft and chewy consistency.

Desserts

Wheat starch helps thicken custards, puddings, and other desserts, making them smooth and creamy. It also takes in excess moisture in fruit fillings for pies and tarts, keeping the crust from becoming soggy.

Plant-Based Meat Analogs

Wheat starch does wonders on plant-based meat analogs, like veggie burgers, sausages, and nuggets. It enhances the mouthfeel of these products, making them more similar to real meat. Furthermore, it prevents the ingredients from falling apart during cooking.

Finding a Wheat Starch Wholesale Supplier in the Philippines

If you are wondering where to buy wheat starch in the Philippines, look no further. Wills International has you covered. Our company offers top-quality ingredients and raw materials for various applications in food and processing industries at competitive prices.

Our wheat starch is sourced from the best raw materials, processed using top-of-the-line equipment, and tested for quality before distribution. This ensures you only receive the finest starch that enhances your food products’ taste, texture, and quality.

We also boast a well-established network of local and international suppliers and distributors, so we can consistently deliver wheat starch products whenever you need them most. Our team will work closely with you to ensure we meet your specific needs and requirements.

FAQs About Wheat Starch

Is Wheat Starch the Same As Wheat Flour?

No. Wheat starch is produced by separating the starch from the other components of the wheat grain. It is mainly composed of carbohydrates, contains little protein or fiber, and is often used as a thickener or stabilizer in food products. On the other hand, wheat flour is made by grinding whole wheat grain. Commonly used as a baking ingredient, it contains carbohydrates, protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Which Is Better: Wheat Starch or Cornstarch?

It depends on the purpose. In food applications, many people prefer using cornstarch because it is naturally gluten-free and a more efficient thickener. It also dissolves quicker than other starches.

Meanwhile, wheat starch may be a better option for those looking to add nutritional value to their food products. A recently developed ingredient called resistant wheat starch incorporates dietary fiber, which digestive enzymes can’t break down, making you feel fuller. Resistant wheat starch is a calorie-free ingredient that improves digestion, regulates weight loss, and helps with obesity-related conditions like diabetes.

What Can I Substitute for Wheat Starch?

There are several alternatives for wheat starch. Some can be used in a 1:1 ratio, while others need adjustments to replace wheat starch in recipes. Here are a few things you can use as substitutes:

• Cornstarch – Made from the endosperm of corn, cornstarch is the most popular alternative to wheat starch. Besides being a thickening agent, you can use it as a dessert coating.
• Tapioca Starch – This is a starch extracted from the root of the cassava plant. Unlike other starches, however, it doesn’t tolerate high temperatures well. This is why it’s best to add it during the last step of the cooking process.
• Potato Starch – You can achieve a similar level of tenderness on baked goods when you use potato starch in place of wheat starch. When substituting wheat starch with this product, use the same amount called for in the recipe.
• Xanthan Gum – Made from a type of bacteria called Xanthomonas campestris, this product has a glue-like texture. However, keep in mind that too much of it can cause digestive problems.

Conclusion

Wheat starch is an all-around ingredient that should have a place in every cook’s pantry. Its neutral taste, fine texture, and high level of purity make it ideal for various applications.

When you choose Wills International as your wheat starch wholesale supplier in the Philippines, you can highly benefit from our top-notch products, reliable supply chain, and competitive pricing. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services!