Abstract: A method of using compositions as foam regulators for water-based systems with a tendency to foam is provided. The method employs a block copolymer containing ester groups corresponding to general formula (I):A--(CH.sub.2 CH.sub.2 O).sub.n --B (I)in which n is an integer of 4 to 300, A is an optionally polymeric hydroxycarboxylic acid function and B is hydrogen, an alkyl or alkenyl radical containing 1 to 22 carbon atoms, a phenyl or benzyl radical or has the same meaning as A. Also provided is a granular free-flowing foam regulating formulation which contains 0.5% by weight to 30% by weight of the block copolymer containing ester groups adsorbed onto from 70% by weight to 99.5% by weight of a granular, substantially inorganic phosphate-free support material.

Abstract: Methods of use of carbonic acid esters corresponding to general formula I: ##STR1## in which R.sup.1 is an alkyl radical derived from an aliphatic saturated primary alcohol containing 1 to 22 carbon atoms and R.sup.2 is an alkyl radical derived from an aliphatic, saturated primary alcohol containing 1 to 8 carbon atoms and/or has the same meaning as R.sup.1 and n is a number of 2 to 20 while m is 0 or has the same meaning as n, as foam control agents for the sugar beet or potato-processing food industry and/or in fermentation processes are provided. In the industrial processing of sugar-containing plant juices, as carried out on an industrial scale in the case of sugar beet, particular difficulties are caused by excessive foaming in the defecation units, during transport of the beet, in the diffusors and in the carbonizing tanks and before the evaporators, thus, use of the esters in these processes is advantageous.

Abstract: Alkadienyl ethers of monosaccharides, disaccharides, and alkyl glucosides are used as foam controllers and foam inhibitors in aqueous systems.