What is Fructose Powder? Common Uses of Fructose

What exactly is fructose? Fructose is a simple sugar belonging to the group of ketoses. Fructose is also known as “fruit sugar” and is mostly recognized for its presence in fruits. Despite that, fructose can be also found in honey, floral nectars, and vegetables. In contrast to glucose, fructose is metabolized without insulin. Fructose can be labeled as E420, E474, and E474 or E491-E495 in a variety range of groceries. It has the same molecular formula as glucose, but differs in the arrangement of atoms in the molecule. It is also sweeter than glucose. In fact, fructose sugar is the sweetest of all sugars.

Common uses of fructose

Fructose is present not only in its natural sources, like fruits and vegetables, but also in many various products. The main reason why producers do add fructose to their goods is to simply make their taste sweeter. Fructose is characterized by the fading of sweetness that is faster than the one of the sucrose. What is also characteristic for fructose is more intense taste of sweetness than those of other sugars. A large part of producers of low-calories goods decide to use fructose due to its unique attributes. Commonly in food production the fructose is being added not only in the form of pure fructose (known also as fructose powder) but also in the form of corn syrup. In the food industry, fructose is used as a sweetener and preservative. Due to its hygroscopic quality, it is useful in extending the shelf life of bakery products. People with diabetes often replace sugar with fructose. Fructose, like other sugars, is being used by the human body as an energy booster.

Other fructose uses

Thanks to its exceptional traits, fructose is used in many branches of food industry as well as in other industries. It can be easily found in variety types of products.

• Cosmetics industry: Fructose is present in cosmetics as well. It is being used for its water-binding capacity. Application of cosmetics with fructose helps one’s skin to stay hydrated and healthy. Fructose protects skin from water loss. It also helps release skin stress and reduce its redness. Fructose is used in huge range of sugar scrubs. One of its main qualities valued in cosmetics industry is the fact that fructose does not melt in contact with warm skin.
• Pharmaceutical industry: Fructose is also used during the production of pharmaceuticals. Fructose is a substrate highly valued by the medicaments’ producers.
• Baked goods: Fructose is widely used to extend the shelf life of baked goods and to prevent confectionery from drying out and crystallizing. Baked goods with added fructose are characterized by an attractive color.
• Ice creams: Fructose is also used in production of ice creams. It provides a smooth consistency of an ice cream.

Fructose – effects on the body

After consuming a product containing fructose, the sugar enters the small intestine, from where it travels to the liver, where it supports the production of glycogen, known as backup fuel. Glycogen is used by the body after very intense exercise or long sleep. Consuming fructose in excessive amounts can lead to fructose accumulation in the form of body fat, which in turn can cause problems with overweight, obesity and cardiovascular disease. In addition, consuming fructose in excess can result in the development of dental caries in the mouth.  For this reason, it is very important – as with many other products – to exercise moderation and caution.

Fructose vs. glucose – similarities and differences

Both glucose and fructose are simple sugars. Glucose, for example, can be found in large quantities in ripe fruits and vegetables, while fructose can be found in candy, honey or fruit juices. The caloric content of the two sugars in question is similar, but they have different glycemic index values and are metabolized differently by the human body. At first glance, the two products are no different, but their chemical structure is completely different.

Fructose – use in sports

Some athletes are eager to use products with a high content of fructose, the characteristics of which enable them to increase performance and reduce fatigue levels especially in conditions characterized by high temperature and humidity levels. Fructose is most readily used by those who participate in high-intensity and endurance sports. Fructose is an important ingredient in sports drinks, where, along with glucose, it helps replenish fluids, electrolytes and carbohydrates lost during intense exercise.

Shelf life of fructose

Shelf life of a product or a component is very crucial for producers and traders. Shelf life of fructose is quite long – it lasts for 24 months. The shelf life will be so long only if the product will be stored properly, in a cool, dry location.

In need of fructose?

Fructose is offered by many suppliers and there is no doubt that Foodcom is the best choice when it comes to reliable contractor and business partner. Foodcom supplies its Business Partners with Fructose in 25 kg bags or Big Bulk. Bulk fructose is available for purchase through the contact form at foodcom.pl!

Not sure if you need it? Learn more about fructose!

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