FDBusiness.com

BENEO is showcasing its new ISOMALT translucent gum coating technology for the first time. The coating process is said to enable chewing gum manufacturers to create attractive products that deliver in terms of translucence and shine, while also maintaining stability throughout their entire shelf life.

The new coating has been made possible thanks to BENEO’s sugar replacer, ISOMALT, which the company says is the only sugar replacer that crystallises translucently. This unique characteristic, says BENEO, makes it the coating of choice for those producers looking to create shiny pellets with innovative visual effects. The new technology allows multi-coloured gum centres to be coated in a crunchy and translucent way. Extraordinary colours, as well as added print and sparkle effects are also now possible and remain visible throughout the shelf life.

BENEO says that ISOMALT translucent coating technology offers new ways to create appealing gum products on existing production equipment. Gum coated with ISOMALT is claimed to have a fine, delicate crunch, excellent flavour release and not be prone to chipping or cracking during production or transport.

“The chewing gum market is in need of fresh ideas to re-ignite sales and BENEO’s translucent coating technology offers fantastic scope for new product innovation,” said Thomas Schmidt, Marketing Director at BENEO. “For the first time multi-coloured centres can be made visible, leading to new visual possibilities in the market that will create excitement for the consumer and manufacturer alike.”

Being the only sugar replacer derived from beet sugar, BENEO says its ISOMALT has a sugar-like, mild sweet taste. It has received EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) health claims for both its low glycaemic and tooth-friendly characteristics. Also, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a dental health claim.

BENEO is part of the Südzucker Group – one of the leading food producers in Europe. The firm was formed in 2007 by the companies Orafti, Palatinit and Remy and is currently represented in more than 75 countries around the world. The company has 900 employees in six offices and five production sites, which are located in Belgium, Germany, Italy and Chile.