Abstract: Methods and compositions for flavor enhancement and development in a cultured dairy product employ identification and selection of fat fractions from sources such as milk(butter) fat for use as flavor precursors. The selected fractions are added to the product at a step in the manufacturing process where they are available for flavor development by means characteristic of the product. The selected fractions are preferably enhanced for fatty acids and have low melting points. For a reduced fat product, the flavor precursors are generally added in combination with a fat substitute. Homogenization of all the aqueous protein component in this type of product was an improvement over homogenizing only a portion of this component. The invention is particularly suitable for production of reduced fat cultured dairy products.

Abstract: Process cheese products which are reduced in calories and fat are produced by combining high moisture, fat free, skim milk cheese, with a fatty substance which is non-absorbable non-digestible, and lower in net caloric efficiency than butterfat, animal fat, or vegetable fat. A suitable fatty substance is a polyol polyester, such as, a sucrose polyester.