The ingredient is sold under the trade name Foamation Q200, and is intended to improve foam stability. The quillaja (or quillaia) tree extract contains saponins, which are water-soluble foaming compounds.
The company says it is cheaper than alternatives such as propylene glycol alginates (PGAs) and, due to its liquid form, is easier to use in formulations.
“For retailers and manufacturers, the labelling is equally as important as the product in delivering the brand message and customer loyalty,” Ingredion Europe’s marketing manager, Beverages, Davy Luyten said in a statement. “We want to help manufacturers deliver beverages that not only improve the drinking experience for the consumer, but also contribute to any ‘all important’ natural claims which a manufacturer may wish to make on packaging.”
The ingredient is sustainably sourced from Chile, and is non-GM, ISO and kosher-certified. It can be used across a wide range of pH and temperatures, the company says, and has a two-year shelf life and neutral taste.
“Texture is also key when developing products with a premium positioning,” said Luyten. “…Since the Foamation Q 200 helps maintain froth for longer, manufacturers can use this ingredient to develop premium claims, both in the creation of new and also to differentiate existing products.”
Ingredion introduced the ingredient in North America in November.