Understanding the Physicochemical and Functional Properties of Wheat Starch in Various Foods

This report highlights the structure and myriad properties of wheat starch in various food systems. Granule shape, size, and color, plus the proportion of A- and B-granules, amylose content, and molecular structure largely determine its functionality in food. The role of wheat starch is portrayed in three categories of flour-based foods that differ in water content. Wheat starch influences the appearance, cooking characteristics, eating quality, and texture of pasta and noodles, and its role is more than a filler in yeast-leavened bread products. Recent developments in the properties and applications of commercially important wheat pyrodextrins and RS4-type resistant wheat starches are reported, along with their use to produce fiber-fortified foods. Gluten-free foods are also discussed.