How to ensure a successful starch switch

A good starch match often requires more than just a specification. Where possible, we combine data, testing and experience to find the best alternative to your current solution.

When a starch needs to be replaced, it is rarely just a matter of changing the recipe. It is about securing supply, consolidating purchases or getting better technical support – without compromising on function, stability and declaration.

Even if the specifications are similar, this is often not enough to ensure a safe switch.

Differences in origin, processing and particle size can mean that two starches that are identical on paper behave differently in production.

That is why we test and document, so that you can make a safe and professionally sound decision when replacing an existing variant.

A technical match requires practical understanding

When we match one starch with another, we combine specification data with functional tests and experience – and always assess the starch in its context.

Together with our partners, we examine the product sample using selected parameters. These may include:

Viscosity and gel strength.
Heat resistance.
Freeze/defrost stability.
Sensory properties and mouthfeel.
Declaration and dosage.
pH tolerance and interaction with other ingredients.

We select and test these parameters because they have a direct impact on how the starch behaves. This applies both during production and in the finished product.

Your input is crucial for a successful switch

The more information we receive, the better we can match the existing starch with our alternative. As a minimum, we need a specification or technical data sheet.

In addition, the process is strengthened if we also:

Receive information about use and dosage.
Know relevant process data (temperature, pH, physical impact, e.g. stirring, homogenisation, pumping etc.).
Receive a sample of the starch.

We work in a structured manner with the information we receive and only recommend solutions that can be documented and tested.

In some cases, the goal is to develop a parallel solution to the existing starch. This can be an advantage in terms of security of supply – and gives you a documented alternative if the need arises.

Case: From expected 1:1 match to improved stability

A manufacturer wanted to find a replacement for a modified starch used in sauces. The current solution tended to separate after reheating. The customer wanted a 1:1 match with no change in declaration or function. We analysed the usage situation, identified critical process points and tested three starch variants. One of them not only matched the function, but also provided better stability during heating. The customer was able to switch starches without adjusting the recipe – and with a technical gain.

The case shows how important it is to work with more than just the specification and to consider the function of the starch in practice. Only when function, stability and process work together, you get a solution that works in reality.

Contact us for a safe starch alternative

If you have a specific starch you want to match – either as a replacement or a stable parallel solution – then let's talk. We will help you assess, test and document, so that you can switch confidently.

Our solutions cover both the technical and practical aspects.

That is why we also look at price, packaging type, delivery options, minimum orders and annual volumes – everything that needs to work in everyday life for the solution to be viable in practice.

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