Abstract: Improved processes are provided for the production of grain-based products and especially multi-grain chips. The preferred process makes use of a single mixture of dry ingredients containing respective starch fractions having different levels of gelatinization. The starting mixture is preconditioned and extruded so as to form the mixture but without any substantial additional gelatinization of the starches. Moisture is added to the mixture during both preconditioning and extruding such that the extrudate exhibits both different levels of gelatinization in the starches therein, and also has portions with different levels of moisturization.

Abstract: An improved extrusion processing system (10) for sticky extrudates such as candy products is provided which includes an extruder (12) equipped with a die (16) presenting an outlet face (23) and a knife assembly (19) and a knife hood (18). The system (10) further has a particulate delivery unit (20) which serves to direct a stream of particulate substance under positive pressure onto the outlet face (23) of extrusion die (16). The delivery unit (20) includes a container (42) for holding a supply of a particulate substance such as starch or sugar together with conduits (52, 56) adapted for coupling with a source of pressurized air and connected with container (42); a stream of the particulate substance under pressure is created and delivered via conduit (56) to hood (18) where it passes through delivery tube (60) for application onto outlet face (23).

Abstract: Highly palatable, shelf-stable, moist, pasta-type extruded food products are provided which can be formulated as a human food (e.g., a confection) or as a pet food. The extruded products of the invention include a substantially completely gelatinized matrix including therein from about 35-70% by weight starch, dry basis, together with quantities of protein and sugar. The extruded products should have a moisture content of from about 15-30% by weight, and a water activity of from about 0.6-0.9. The products are made by forming a mixture of ingredients followed by preconditioning, extrusion and drying and/or cooling to achieve the final desired moisture.