Abstract: Food products, typically having a moisture content above 50% by weight, are prepared which contain polysaccharide hydrocolloid and insoluble fiber at a weight ratio of 1:0.2-3.5:1.1-4.5. These materials are preferably added to the food product as an aqueous dispersion. The aqueous dispersion preferably also contains a protein material. This invention is particularly useful in the preparation of fat-free food products.

Abstract: Doughs and batters are prepared which contain hydrated polysaccharide hydrocolloid hydrated insoluble fiber and hydrated protein preferably at a weight ratio of 1:0.8-6:1.1-4.5. The hydrated materials are added to the dough or batter formulation as an aqueous dispersion. The resulting dough and batter can be baked in a conventional manner. This invention is particularly useful in the preparation of fat-free baked goods.

Abstract: An intermediate moisture, polyhydric alcohol-free, cooked fondant to be used in the production of food bars. This cooked fondant can be used in the production of different types of food bars, by mixing the fondant with various dry ingredients, including dry grains, nuts, and fruits. The soft, chewy food bars are processed without the use of polyhydric alcohols, by adding free water and sucrose to the fondant prior to cooking. This added free water is available to migrate from the cooked fondant to the dry ingredients after the food bars are produced, and this results in a smaller amount of sugar crystallization and a soft, chewy bar.

Abstract: A method of producing a frozen, dual-textured confection comprising a cream and a gelatin-containing aerated phase and a natural or simulated fruit phase is disclosed. According to one embodiment, gelatin is dispersed in water and the dispersion is then combined with cream, sweetener, emulsifier and a gum stabilizer to form a uniform emulsion. The emulsion is then partially frozen and aerated. A fluid, natural or simulated fruit component is separately produced by combining pureed fruit or synthetic fruit flavor, sweetener and a gum stabilizer. The partially frozen, aerated emulsion is passed together with a fruit component through a filler head into a mold or container so that the mold or container contains a cream and gelatin-containing phase and a fruit phase. The contents of the mold or container are then thoroughly frozen. A stick may be inserted into the mold prior to the thorough freezing so that the frozen confection may be hand-held while being eaten.