Utilization of bacterial cellulose in food

Bacterial cellulose (BC), a microbial polysaccharide, has significant potential as a food ingredient in view of its high purity, in situ change of flavor and color, and having the ability to form various shapes and textures. As a nano-scale fiber it can form a 3D network structure. Its material properties are multifunctional, with potential uses for thickening and gelling, stabilizing, water-binding and as a packing material. This review deals with current research and possible applications in the food industry. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.