Abstract: A high quality, gelatin-free frozen confection which is ready-to-eat at freezer temperatures is disclosed. The frozen confection maintains its shape on a stick during normal consumption, exhibits excellent storage stability, and delivers a refreshing, texturally-pleasing eating experience. The elimination of gelatin from previous frozen confection formulations has been found in the invention to improve upon the heavy-bodied texture of past formulations, and to enable a reduction in the total hydrocolloid level required to fully bind the water in the frozen confection.

Abstract: This invention relates to the use of a salt and/or a mild caustic in solution to increase the relative volatility of aromatics contained in an aqueous stream. The increased relative volatility so achieved enables more efficient concentration of the aromas via distillation. The pH of the aroma-containing aqueous stream does not exceed 7.0 through the addition of the salt or caustic to prevent aroma degradation.