Abstract: A spread is provided which is a water-continuous dispersion comprising a continuous aqueous phase and optionally a dispersed fat phase. The continuous aqueous phase comprises a gelling maltodextrin and an aggregate-forming proteinaceous gelling agent. The dispersed fat phase, if present, contains no more than 20% of fat by weight of the spread. The components of the spread are selected so that the spread has a ratio of plastic stress to maximum stress (.sigma.p/.sigma.max) in the range 0.95 to 1, when measured by compression analysis at 5.degree. C., typically using samples of cylindrical shape, measuring 26 mm in length and 26 mm in diameter, which are compressed at a rate of 0.8 mm per second. The spreads show characteristic rheological parameters comparable to those of an idealised plastic dispersion, and have good spreading properties at all temperatures from 4.degree. C. to 25.degree. C. They are suitable for use as a substitute for butter or margarine and show good microbiological stability.

Abstract: A low fat spread which is a water-in-oil emulsion comprising a continuous fat phase and a dispersed aqueous phase, the aqueous phase comprising at least 6% by weight of one or more proteins derived from milk and from 1.3 to 4.0% by weight of a modified starch, the fat phase comprising 18 to 37% by weight of the total composition of the low fat spread. The low fat spread of the invention has improved texture, mouthfeel and spreadability, as well as improved flavor.

Abstract: A low fat spread and process for preparing a low fat spread which is a water-in-oil emulsion comprising a continuous fat phase and a dispersed aqueous phase, the aqueous phase comprising at least 8% weight of one or more proteins derived from milk, and from 0.1 to 1.2% by weight of a modified starch, the fat phase constituting 18-35% by weight of the total weight of the low fat spread.