Abstract: Systems, methods and cartridges for carbonating or otherwise dissolving gas in a precursor liquid, such as water, to form a beverage. A gas source can be provided in a cartridge which is used to generate gas that is dissolved into the precursor liquid. A beverage medium, such as a powdered drink mix or liquid syrup, may be provided in the same, or a separate cartridge as the gas source and mixed with the precursor liquid to form a beverage. The use of one or more cartridges for the gas source and/or beverage medium may make for an easy to use and mess-free system for making sparkling beverages, e.g., in the consumer's home.

Abstract: Disclosed is a catechin bioavailability enhancer comprising cyclodextrin as an active ingredient. Further, disclosed is a composition comprising a catechin bioavailability enhancer comprising catechin and cyclodextrin. The composition disclosed in the present specification may improve the stability of catechin which has significantly low intestinal absorption rate, and thus may improve bioaccessibility, intestinal transport rate and bioavailability of catechin. Accordingly, the improved bioavailability may further increase the effects of catechin such as the effects of reducing weight and body fat, anti-oxidative effects and anti-aging effects. The composition disclosed in the present specification having the abovementioned characteristics can be effectively used in the fields of food or pharmacy.

Abstract: A beverage tablet comprising an effervescent system including a base selected from one or more carbonates, bicarbonates, or combinations thereof, where the base is present in an amount of about 5 wt % to about 40 wt % of the tablet; and where the tablet self-disperses in an aqueous liquid in less than about three minutes to produce a beverage.

Abstract: A foaming composition includes a powdered carbohydrate-free soluble composition which includes protein particles having a plurality of internal voids containing entrapped pressurized gas. In one form, the foaming composition is produced by subjecting the particles to an external gas pressure exceeding atmospheric pressure prior to or while heating the particles to a temperature of at least the glass transition temperature and then cooling the particles to a temperature below the glass transition temperature prior to or while releasing the external pressure in a manner effective to trap the pressurized gas within the internal voids.

Abstract: An edible mix includes granulated lemon juice solids, granulated citric acid or granulated malic acid, and encapsulated natural lemon oil. In one embodiment, the edible mix also includes granulated maltodextrin, granulated ascorbic acid, and granulated lactose. In one embodiment, the components of the edible mix are mechanically mixed together to form a substantially homogeneous composition. In one embodiment, several of the components are blended by an agglomeration method.

Abstract: An effervescent composition is provided comprising a dry, free-flowing powder comprising (a) microcapsules comprising a hollow, solid, water soluble outer shell comprising a starch, a sugar or mixtures thereof and an inner core comprising a liquid, water immiscible oil comprising at least one polyunsaturated fatty acid, at least one derivative of a polyunsaturated fatty acid or mixtures thereof, and (b) an effervescing agent.

Abstract: Gas-effusing compositions, particularly, particulate compositions having pressurized gas held within open internal voids thereof, are provided as well as methods of making and using such compositions.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for the preparation of solid capsules that contain flavours therein, by spray drying of an emulsion of a flavour or fragrance, a natural extract of saponins, water and a water-soluble biopolymer having a molecular weight below 100 KDa. The invention further relates to the solid capsules obtainable by the method and to edible products containing them.

Abstract: A foaming composition includes a powdered carbohydrate-free soluble composition which includes protein particles having a plurality of internal voids containing entrapped pressurized gas. In one form, the foaming composition is produced by subjecting the particles to an external gas pressure exceeding atmospheric pressure prior to or while heating the particles to a temperature of at least the glass transition temperature and then cooling the particles to a temperature below the glass transition temperature prior to or while releasing the external pressure in a manner effective to trap the pressurized gas within the internal voids.

Abstract: A method for preparing a beverage suitable for human consumption and having a fine-bubble form a layer including delivering the beverage under pressure with at least one nozzle which is in fluid communication with the beverage unit for supplying the beverage to the nozzle such that the nozzle can generate a jet of beverage. The method further using a receiving unit into which the jet is directed for obtaining the beverage with the fine-bubble foam layer, said receiving unit being provided with a chamber with at least one drain opening for delivering the beverage with the fine-bubble foam layer and a jet impact member accommodated in said chamber and having a top that lies free from an inner wall of said chamber. The nozzle and the jet impact member are mutually oriented such that the jet hits against a portion of the top of the jet impact member, so that the jet after hitting against the jet impact member forms a mist of the beverage.

Abstract: An effervescent tablet that includes from about 20% by weight to about 80% by weight effervescent agent that includes an acid and a base, from about 5% by weight to about 25% by weight a first binder, and at least 0.1% by weight oil component that includes at least one of a fatty acid comprising an alkyl chain having at least 10 carbon atoms, safflower oil, canola oil, sunflower oil, flax seed oil, and wheat germ oil, the tablet having a hardness of at least 2 kiloponds. The tablet optionally includes from about 2% by weight to about 20% by weight of a component (e.g. Aspartame) that is insoluble in water, slightly soluble in water, or sparingly soluble in water or exhibits delayed solubility in water.

Abstract: A method for replenishing carbon dioxide gas in a carbonated beverage container where a carbon dioxide regulator releases carbon dioxide at a rate approximately equal to the rate of carbon dioxide loss from said container. Also shown is a packaging system for maintaining a consistent pressure of a carbonated beverage having a closure, a plastic container, and a carbon dioxide regulator. Also shown is a method for making a packaging system for maintaining a consistent pressure in a carbonated beverage having overmolding a preform around an assembly for a carbon dioxide regulator, or blending a carbon dioxide regulator into the plastic material used to form the body of a container for said carbonated beverage. Also shown is a carbon dioxide regulator composition for replenishing carbon dioxide gas in a carbonated beverage container having polymeric carbonates, organic carbonates, or materials that absorb and subsequently release carbon dioxide.

Abstract: The present invention relates to liquid and powdered compositions as well as emulsions comprising whey protein and lipid, particularly fish oil, suitable for enrichment of a variety of food articles and beverages with poly unsaturated fatty acids like omega-3 fatty acids. The composition may also be consumed as such. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a process of preparing such compositions and emulsions. The main feature of the process of the present invention, is that the microencapsulation of the lipid is made simultaneously with the microparticulation of the protein. A composition having superior properties in terms of taste and stability, is provided by the present invention.

Abstract: An instant beverage powder with non-polymer catechins contained at high concentration has improved flavor and taste owing to reductions in bitterness and astringency, and also provides improved flavor and taste and improved stability in external appearance after reconstituted into a beverage. The instant beverage powder contains the following ingredients (A) and (B): (A) from 0.5 to 20.0 wt % of a purified product of green tea extract, said purified product being obtained by purifying the green tea extract in a mixed solution of ethanol and water at a weight ratio of from 99/1 to 75/25, and (B) from 0.01 to 10.0 wt % of a hydroxycarboxylic acid or a lactone, or a salt thereof. The content of non-polymer catechins in the instant beverage powder is from 0.5 to 15.0 wt %.

Abstract: This invention provides an effervescent solid form that dissolves in cold water quickly enough to not disappoint consumers yet not so quickly that the visual interest generated during the effervescent reaction is lost. This performance is achieved by forming effervescent particles that are dense enough to retard dissolution and small enough to not take too long to dissolve. The aim of this invention is to provide a beverage in solid effervescent form that takes between about 30 and about 120 seconds to dissolve in warm water. The granules may carry functional additives such as flavors, vitamins, minerals, sweeteners, colors and drugs. The granules may also be compounded of materials intended to provide relief from skin or topical discomfort, as in the form of a wash or bath additive. The granules may also be formulated to provide cleaning agents, such as ceramic cleaners and denture cleaners.

Abstract: Effervescent powder formulation having self-refrigerant power that consists of a mixture of sodium bicarbonate, citric acid, and tartaric acid, useful for obtaining an instant sparkling beverage

Abstract: The invention relates to liquid containers comprising a plurality of sealed additive chambers in communication with a vessel tillable with a liquid. The additive chambers comprise independently selected additives that may be added to a liquid in the container at the option of the user. The user can manually open the additive chambers of their choice and release the additive into a liquid in the vessel without destroying the integrity of the container. In this manner, the liquid containers are programmable by the users and various aspects of the liquid in the container, such as color and/or flavor, is controlled by the user.

Abstract: The invention relates to the use of a pulverulent composition having instantaneous dispersion and solubility properties in aqueous solutions and including: riboflavin, a first saccharide possessing hydrocolloidal properties, and/or a second saccharide, to prepare a food product, the food product being a liquid food products, a solid food products, a semi-liquid food products or a powder, the powder being liable to be instantaneously dispersed in an aqueous solution to provide a beverage.

Abstract: An automated hot beverage dispensing machine and method for producing hot beverages is shown. The preferred apparatus includes a plurality of flavoring reservoirs connected through pumps and valves to a plenum that dispenses the flavoring directly into a mixing chamber. The mixing chamber also receives milk and steam, facilitating mixing of the milk, steam, and flavoring, and dispensing the mixture into a serving cup. The dispensing machine may include a coffee brewing system, whereby the machine can produce flavored lattés, cappuccinos, and the like. In the preferred embodiment, pressurized steam is directed through a Venturi assembly that draws in refrigerated milk and ambient air and delivers the fluids to a vortex mixer to produce steamed and/or foamed milk. The flavoring is delivered to the vortex mixer, and steam is channeled to the plenum to facilitate delivery of the flavoring and maintain the cleanliness of the plenum.

Abstract: The invention pertains to a delivery system for delivery of at least one physiologically active ingredient in a pleasant and palatable manner. One preferred embodiment is a beverage mix comprising a plurality of morsels, each morsel comprising a core, a plurality of effervescent zones, at least one barrier zones, wherein the at least one barrier zone temporarily protects the plurality of effervescent zones. When a beverage is immersed in water, the barrier zone prevents water reaching the effervescent zone. The at least one barrier zone deteriorates exposing the effervescent zones in sequence. The effervescent zones dissolve and carbon dioxide gas is released. Gas bubbles coat the morsel and it rises. When the gas bubbles disengage from the morsel, the morsel falls. The process repeats until all of the effervescent zones are exposed. The drink comprising gelatinous cores in carbonated water is ready for consumption.

Abstract: An effervescent supplement tablet is especially adapted for use in a beverage. The tablet contains a supplement ingredient and effervescent ingredients, including citric acid and sodium bicarbonate. The effervescent supplement tablet may additionally contain nutritional ingredients, such as vitamins or/and minerals, flavoring, sugars, sweeteners and/or medicaments, minerals or an electrolyte. Such effervescent supplement tablets are housed in one or more peel away packages that are adhesively attached to an external surface of a water-containing vessel, so that the effervescent supplement tablets are part of a fluid refreshment system. The packages are made from sealed polyethylene film having a continuous aluminum coating, which is moisture resistant and enables the packages to withstand washing of the vessel. Each of the packages has a notch therein to facilitate tearing. One or more packages are torn open, and the effervescent supplement tablet is emptied into the bottled water to create a custom beverage.

Abstract: This invention relates to a unique lightweight packaging system for an effervescing carbonated alcoholic beverage and a method, which allows for instantaneous cooling, below ambient air conditions with carbonation of an alcoholic beverage while hiking.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for reconstituting consumable powder(s) with a liquid to provide a food liquid such as milk, cappuccino-type beverage, or soup with or without froth. The powder is introduced into a container and pre-wetted by an intersecting liquid spray. Further mixing occurs in the container. The container may have additional liquid streams feeding into the container for increased mixing. This food liquid can then be aspirated by the Venturi effect by steam generation to produce a frothed/aerated food liquid.

Abstract: Composite particle comprised of composite particles in which edible core particles are encapsulated with a coating comprising a material that forms a propellant gas when contacted with an edible acid in a solution such that the composite particles independently move in the solution sufficient to create a visual effect. The movement of the composite particles creates an interesting and enjoyable optical effect. In one embodiment, these composite particles are included in powdered beverage mixes including an edible acid which are reconstituted into drinking beverages having the optical effect imparted by the movement of the composite particles in solution.

Abstract: A method for preparing a frozen carbonated beverage that remains stable at home freezer temperatures as well as commercial freezer temperatures, and a frozen carbonated beverage produced by said method. According to a preferred method of the invention, carbon dioxide-hydrate is prepared, ground, and mixed with a frozen flavored syrup component. The resulting mixture is compacted and packaged for storage and shipping.

Abstract: A beverage powder which is able to progressively increase the viscosity of liquids. The beverage powder contains particles of a gelatinised cereal fraction containing &bgr;-glucan. The particles have a particle size of less than about 350 &mgr;m. When dissolved in liquid to provide a beverage having a &bgr;-glucan concentration of about 0.4% to about 1.5% by weight, the beverage powder progressively increases the viscosity of the beverage such that, after about 15 minutes at room temperature, the beverage has a viscosity below about 350 mPa.s but which rapidly develops a final viscosity of above about 1000 mPa.s at body temperature.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for the preparation of a foamed drink comprising the steps of: providing a capsule containing a foamable ingredient; providing a receptacle positioned to collect fluid escaping from the capsule; injecting liquid into the capsule to mix with the foamable ingredient; allowing the foamable ingredient mixed with the liquid to escape from the capsule into the receptacle; followed by injecting further liquid into the receptacle in a jet having a diameter of from about 0.5 to about 2 mm to produce foamed liquid in the receptacle. The invention also provides capsules, apparatus and systems specifically adapted for use in the method. Preferably, the food ingredient is a milk powder, and the method produces a hot foamed beverage such as a cappuccino coffee.

Abstract: A powdered soluble foamer ingredient for producing enhanced foam in foodstuffs and beverages is described. The particles of the powdered soluble foamer ingredient are formed of a matrix containing carbohydrate and protein and entrapped gas. The gas is pressurised to release upon addition of liquid at least about 1 ml of gas at ambient conditions per gram of soluble foamer ingredient. When used in soluble creamer powders, enhanced amounts of foam are generated.

Abstract: The present invention relates to substantially alcohol free beverages having a sweetener system which ensures the full perception of the flavour system within the beverage while at the same time containing flavanols as a sweetness cutting material which reduces the sweetness impression of the sweetener system.

Abstract: An edible confection which repeatedly rises and sinks, i.e., “swims,” in a transparent carbonated beverage due to changing buoyancy resulting from the formation of carbonation bubbles on the surface of the confection, and the escape of the bubbles to the atmosphere when the confection reaches the top of the beverage. An edible surfactant is included as a soluble coating on the confection to influence the confection-atmosphere surface tension, confection-beverage surface tension, and/or beverage-atmosphere surface tension such that the surface tension at the top of the beverage does not inhibit or prevent descension of the confection. Preferably, the surfactant is a powdered gelatin. The coating may also include ingredients which promote the solution of the gelatin. Alternatively, for confections having a liquid coating, the viscosity and thickness of the coating are engineered, and/or the underlying surface is roughened to minimize the sliding of carbonation bubbles when the surface is inclined.

Abstract: The present invention relates to color and flavor improvements in iron and zinc supplemented dry beverage powders having fruit and/or botanical flavor. Vitamins such as the B vitamins, vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E can be added to the dry beverage mix. The supplemented dry beverage mix can also contain iodine, niacin and folic acid. In particular, methods for fortifying dry beverage mixes with certain bioavailable zinc and iron compounds without producing reconstituted beverages having undesirable color or flavor are disclosed. Also disclosed are beverages and foods fortified preferably with amino acid chelated iron that do not impart objectionable color due to the inclusion of a ferric ion reducing agent such as ascorbic acid and/or an agent such as citric acid that is capable of preferentially complexing ferric ion in the presence of polyphenols or flavonoids that are typically present in these beverages or foods.

Abstract: A fructose-containing refreshing drink composition for increasing the alcohol degradation capacity of the body is provided which contains one or more components of the vitamin B complex as well as taurine; furthermore, a refreshing drink, a syrup as well as a dry substance for increasing the alcohol degradation capacity are provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to color and flavor improvements in iron and zinc supplemented dry beverage powders having fruit and/or botanical flavor. Vitamins such as the B vitamins, vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E can be added to the dry beverage mix. The supplemented dry beverage mix can also contain iodine, niacin and folic acid. In particular, methods for fortifying dry beverage mixes with certain bioavailable zinc and iron compounds without producing reconstituted beverages having undesirable color or flavor are disclosed. Also disclosed are beverages and foods fortified preferably with amino acid chelated iron that do not impart objectionable color due to the inclusion of a ferric ion reducing agent such as ascorbic acid and/or an agent such as citric acid that is capable of preferentially complexing ferric ion in the presence of polyphenols or flavonoids that are typically present in these beverages or foods.

Abstract: The invention concerns a preparation for supplementing a beverage as a combined product for simultaneous or separate use or to be formed in situ comprising an efficient dose of calcium carbonate or of magnesium hydroxycarbonate in a Ca/Mg weight ratio ranging between 1 and 6, such that the resulting beverage is enriched in calcium or magnesium in soluble form. The invention also concerns a method for enriching a beverage in calcium and magnesium with said supplementing preparation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to color and flavor improvements in iron and zinc supplemented dry beverage powders having fruit and/or botanical flavor. Vitamins such as the B vitamins, vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E can be added to the dry beverage mix. The supplemented dry beverage mix can also contain iodine, niacin and folic acid. In particular, methods for fortifying dry beverage mixes with certain bioavailable zinc and iron compounds without producing reconstituted beverages having undesirable color or flavor are disclosed. Also disclosed are beverages and foods fortified preferably with amino acid chelated iron that do not impart objectionable color due to the inclusion of a ferric ion reducing agent such as ascorbic acid and/or an agent such as citric acid that is capable of preferentially complexing ferric ion in the presence of polyphenols or flavonoids that are typically present in these beverages or foods.

Abstract: A dry composition capable of generating alcoholic beer in the presence of water. The composition includes agglomerates of an edible carbonation source and a powdered source of alcoholic beer. The edible carbonation source includes a water soluble carbonate and an acid. The source of alcoholic beer is a spray dried solution of beer and a water soluble material such as gelatin or a modified starch. The composition may be used as a free flowing powder or the powder may be compressed into tablet form.

Abstract: This invention describes compositions of meltable organic acid and carbonate salt suitable for providing effervescence when dissolved in water and protection for additional ingredients from oxidation or reaction with atmospheric moisture during storage. In the production of stable chlorine tablets citric acid is melted then mixed with powdered carbonate and the viscous combination then combined with hypochlorite producing compounds such as calcium hypochlorite or halazone to form stable forms suitable for use in disinfecting applications. Melted acid-bicarbonate mixtures are used to make instant carbonated drinks wherein evolved carbonate is trapped in a closed container to improve the level of carbonation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to color and flavor improvements in iron and zinc supplemented dry beverage powders having fruit and/or botanical flavor. Vitamins such as the B vitamins, vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E can be added to the dry beverage mix. The supplemented dry beverage mix can also contain iodine, niacin and folic acid. In particular, methods for fortifying dry beverage mixes with certain bioavailable zinc and iron compounds without producing reconstituted beverages having undesirable color or flavor are disclosed. Also disclosed are beverages and foods fortified preferably with amino acid chelated iron that do not impart objectionable color due to the inclusion of a ferric ion reducing agent such as ascorbic acid and/or an agent such as citric acid that is capable of preferentially complexing ferric ion in the presence of polyphenols or flavonoids that are typically present in these beverages or foods.

Abstract: The present invention relates to color and flavor improvements in iron and zinc supplemented dry beverage powders having fruit and/or botanical flavor. Vitamins such as the B vitamins, vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E can be added to the dry beverage mix. The supplemented dry beverage mix can also contain iodine, niacin and folic acid. In particular, methods for fortifying dry beverage mixes with certain bioavailable zinc and iron compounds without producing reconstituted beverages having undesirable color or flavor are disclosed. Also disclosed are beverages and foods fortified preferably with amino acid chelated iron that do not impart objectionable color due to the inclusion of a ferric ion reducing agent such as ascorbic acid and/or an agent such as citric acid that is capable of preferentially complexing ferric ion in the presence of polyphenols or flavonoids that are typically present in these beverages or foods.

Abstract: The present invention relates to color and flavor improvements in iron and zinc supplemented dry beverage powders having fruit and/or botanical flavor. Vitamins such as the B vitamins, vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E can be added to the dry beverage mix. The supplemented dry beverage mix can also contain iodine, niacin and folic acid. In particular, methods for fortifying dry beverage mixes with certain bioavailable zinc and iron compounds without producing reconstituted beverages having undesirable color or flavor are disclosed. Also disclosed are beverages and foods fortified preferably with amino acid chelated iron that do not impart objectionable color due to the inclusion of a ferric ion reducing agent such as ascorbic acid and/or an agent such as citric acid that is capable of preferentially complexing ferric ion in the presence of polyphenols or flavonoids that are typically present in these beverages or foods.

Abstract: The present invention relates to color and flavor improvements in iron and zinc supplemented dry beverage powders having fruit and/or botanical flavor. Vitamins such as the B vitamins, vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E can be added to the dry beverage mix. The supplemented dry beverage mix can also contain iodine, niacin and folic acid. In particular, methods for fortifying dry beverage mixes with certain bioavailable zinc and iron compounds without producing reconstituted beverages having undesirable color or flavor are disclosed. Also disclosed are beverages and foods fortified preferably with amino acid chelated iron that do not impart objectionable color due to the inclusion of a ferric ion reducing agent such as ascorbic acid and/or an agent such as citric acid that is capable of preferentially complexing ferric ion in the presence of polyphenols or flavonoids that are typically present in these beverages or foods.

Abstract: A dry mix for producing a low-calorie slush when combined with an aqueous fluid and ice in an electric blender. The dry mix contains 62-87% bulking agent, such as maltodextrin, 2-20% food acid, 3-15% low-viscosity hydrocolloid, 1-8% non-gelling hydrocolloid, one or more intensive sweeteners and optionally a carbonating salt. Preferably, the mix is sugar-free and produces a slush, when combined with water and ice, having a calorie content of less than 60 calories per 8-ounce serving.

Abstract: A solid state water soluble formulation in granular or tablet form is provided. The formulation is a natural products formulation containing a green tea plant extract in combination with other ingredients which create an effervescent liquid composition upon dispensing the formulation in a liquid. The liquid form of administration, as well as the effervescent properties of the dissolved formulation increase bioavailability of the advantageous components of the green tea plants such as Polyphenols, by increasing absorption speed and amount in the human body. The formulation may include additional components such as, other plant extracts, vitamins, ionic minerals, and other substances purported to be of a health benefit.

Abstract: A heavily foaming coffee fraction characterized by the following bands in the FT-IR spectrum: 3400 cm−1, 2900 cm−1, 1655 cm −1, 1524 cm−1 1000-1150 cm−1, 894 cm−1 and 876 cm−1 and a production process for the coffee fraction (1) defatting with an organic solvent and extracting with hot water, (2) filtrating the extract, (3) adding a precipitation agent to the extract and centrifugation of the obtained precipitate, (4) dissolving the precipitate in water or an aqueous alcohol, (5) dialysing the solution against water, (6) filtrating the non-dialysable solution and (7) freeze-drying the filtrate.

Abstract: The invention relates to a soluble coffee beverage powder, which, upon the addition of water, is capable of forming a coffee beverage having a foamed upper surface. The soluble coffee beverage powder includes a soluble gas containing matrix comprising soluble coffee solids and a soluble filler, with the soluble filler constituting at least about 35% by weight of the dry matter of the matrix in order to increase the volume of the soluble coffee beverage powder incorporating gas. A particular preferred filler is an oligofructose that has a good solubility and which positively influences on the taste of the prepared coffee beverage. The invention also relates a soluble coffee beverage powder providing a black foamed coffee. The invention also provides a process for preparing such a soluble coffee beverage powder.

Abstract: This invention relates to effervescent compositions which provide calcium supplementation via a soluble calcium source.

Abstract: The present invention provides a stable preservation method of a powdered soft drink preparation, which includes adding 0.2 to 1.0% by weight of a calcium oxide and 0.02 to 2.0% by weight of a particulate silicon dioxide in the powdered soft drink preparation containing a carbohydrate and a sour agent as a main component. The powdered soft drink preparation of the present invention maintains the original powder state, color and taste, which are obtained immediately after the production, for a long period of time without causing comparatively rapid coagulation of powders, discoloration and change in taste at the time of preservation.

Abstract: Aerated confections that dissolve quickly in water or in a dairy beverage are disclosed. The aerated food products preferably include 50 to 98% of a saccharide component; about 0.5 to 30% of a structuring agent; about 1 to 6% moisture; and about 1% to 5% of a whipping agent. The aerated food products have a density of about 0.1 to 1.0 g/cc. The compositions can be formed into pieces ranging from about 0.1 to 5 g each. Preparation methods for the pieces are also disclosed. The confectionery food products find particular suitability for use as ingredients for children's RTE cereals.

Abstract: A particulate creamer comprising protein, lipid, and carrier, in which more than 50% by weight of the protein is partially denatured whey protein, the partially denatured whey protein being from 40 to 90% denatured. The creamer is particularly suitable for foaming creamer compositions. The foaming creamer composition, when added to a brewed hot coffee beverage, produces a large amount of a creamy and semi-solid foam. The creamer is preferably prepared by heat treating a slurry comprising the protein, lipid and carrier constituents of the creamer to effect denaturation of the whey protein, followed by spray drying the slurry. The creamer may also be employed in dry mix instant cappuccino compositions.

Abstract: A complete, nutritionally balanced coffee drink providing caloric and protein nutritional support for patients, particularly elderly and long-term care patients is provided. An instant coffee composition, a method for making the instant coffee composition and coffee drink made therefrom are described. The composition and drink has a caloric distribution including from about 16% to 30% of a protein component, from about 40% to 60% of a carbohydrate component and from about 15% to 33% of a lipid component. The instant coffee composition readily dissolves in hot water to provide a beverage which looks and tastes like black coffee which may be administered to a patient in need of nutritional support.