Abstract: Provided herein are compositions that are useful as binding agents for clusters, bars, and other food applications where various components need to be adhered to each other. The binding agents include a wheat protein isolate in combination with flour and water.

Abstract: A method of preparing a functionalized wheat protein product is provided. The method comprises an enzyme treatment step wherein a wheat protein composition is contacted with a primary enzyme, and optionally with a secondary enzyme. The primary enzyme comprises a protease that is naturally occurring in a fruit.

Abstract: Provided herein are compositions that are useful as binding agents for clusters, bars, and other food applications where various components need to be adhered to each other. The binding agents comprise a wheat protein isolate in combination with flour and water.

Abstract: The various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a protein-based binder or coating system for particulate- and/or powder-type food systems, for example, to form nutritive ready-to-eat food bars, protein bars, snack pieces, or cereal clusters, where the binder comprises a modified wheat protein isolate. Other non-limiting embodiments relate to food compositions comprising a modified wheat protein isolate binder, and at least one of food particulates; powdered food ingredients, such as protein powders; and combinations thereof. In addition, methods for forming the various non-limiting embodiments of the food compositions and the modified wheat protein isolate binder systems are also disclosed.