Abstract: Starch, particularly maize starch, having an amylose content of more than 80% w/w, including physically or chemically modified derivatives thereof, and destructurized and non-destructurized forms thereof. Also, disclosed are hybrid maize seeds capable of producing a starch having an amylose content of more than 80%. Also disclosed are starch fractions of enhanced dietary fiber and/or resistant starch content.

Abstract: The invention described in this application relates to food compositions such as breakfast cereals, bread and the like which have an enhanced dietary fiber content. In each case the source of dietary fiber is a starch, preferably a maize starch, having an amylose content of 50% or more, the starch being incorporated into a food composition as appropriate. Alternatively, grains or legumes or parts thereof which include starch of this amylose content may be used.

Abstract: The invention described in this application relates to food compositions such as breakfast cereals, bread and the like which have an enhanced dietary fibre content. In each case the source of dietary fibre is a starch, preferably a maize starch, having an amylose content of 50% or more, the starch being incorporated into a food composition as appropriate. Alternatively, grains or legumes or parts thereof which include starch of this amylose content may be used.

Abstract: A probiotic composition is disclosed which is particularly useful for inclusion in food products to enhance their nutritional value. The composition comprises one or more probiotic microorganisms such as Bifidobacterium and a carrier to transport the microorganisms to the large bowel or other regions of the gastrointestinal tract. The carrier is a modified or unmodified resistant starch, particularly a high amylose starch, which acts as a growth or maintenance medium for microorganisms in the large bowel or other regions of the gastrointestinal tact.

Abstract: Hybrid maize seeds which yield a starch having an amylose content of 80% or more are disclosed as are starches having that amylose content. Compositions including these high amylose starches are also disclosed. Fractions of high amylose starches which have been formed on the basis of granule size are shown to have enhanced dietary fiber and/or resistant starch content. Such fractions enable the preparation of food compositions of enhanced dietary fiber and/or resistant starch content.

Abstract: A biodegradable or digestible matrix is provided suitable for use as a controlled release of an agriculturally active agent such as insecticides, fungicides, fertilizers, plant growth regulants, etc. The matrix comprises an amylaceous material optionally in association with a synthetic polymer and is formed under elevated temperature and pressure.

Abstract: Starch, particularly maize starch, having an amylose content of more than 80% w/w, including physically or chemically modified derivatives thereof, and destructurized and non-destructurized forms thereof. Also, disclosed are hybrid maize seeds capable of producing a starch having an amylose content of more than 80%. Also disclosed are starch fractions of enhanced dietary fiber and/or resistant starch content.