Abstract: A method for controlling the epimerization of (?)-epicatechin to (?)-catechin in an epicatechin-containing product, preferably an edible product, or of (+)-catechin to (+)-epicatechin in a catechin-containing product, comprises the step of heating the product at a temperature of up to about 200° C. and at a pH of up to about 8. Under either method, the epimerization may be carried out in an open food processor in a reduced oxygen atmosphere or in a closed food processor. The edible product may be pasteurized, boiled, or sterilized during the epimerization. Epimerization is minimized by lowering the heating temperature, by lowering the pH, and/or by lowering the heating time. Conversely, the epimerization is maximized by increasing the heating temperature, by increasing the pH, and/or by increasing the heating time. The edible product may contain or be a fruit product, a vegetable product, a cereal product, a bean product, a nut product, a spice product, or a botanical product.

Abstract: A method for controlling the isomerization of (?)-epicatechin to (?)-catechin in an epicatechin-containing product, preferably an edible product, which method comprises the step of heating the product at a temperature of up to about 190° C. and at a pH of up to about 8. A method for controlling the isomerization of (+)-catechin to (+)-epicatechin in a catechin-containing product, preferably an edible product, which method comprises the step of heating the product, at a temperature of up to about 190° C. and at a pH of up to about 8. Preferably, the temperature is from about 72° C. to about 125° C., the pH is from about 4 to about 7, and the time is at least about 15 seconds. Under either method, the isomerization may be carried out in an open food processor in a reduced oxygen atmosphere or in a closed food processor. The edible product may be pasteurized, boiled or sterilized during the isomerization.

Abstract: An aqueous edible paint composition is disclosed which is useful for painting edible substrates, particularly fat-based edible substrates such as chocolate. Also described is a method of making the edible paint and a kit containing the edible paint and edible substrate.