Ashland Launches Guar Alternatives for Chinese Market

Liu: "The new grades of Aquacel cellulose gum have been developed by a global team to maximize synergies with guar gum, giving formulators flexibility in blending ratios and overall hydrocolloid dose. As such, these new cellulose gum grades offer formulators a strong alternative to guar."

28 Mar 2012 --- Ashland Specialty Ingredients, a commercial unit of Ashland Inc., will introduce Aquacel cellulose gum grades specifically formulated for the China market at Food Ingredients China (FIC) 2012 to be held March 28-30. The two new cellulose gum grades have been formulated for specific uses in noodles and dairy products.

"The volatility in guar availability and pricing, caused in large part by oil and gas industry demand, has formulators searching for a replacement," explained Laurie Kronenberg, new product leader, Nutrition Specialties, Ashland Specialty Ingredients. "Cellulose gum is a cost-effective alternative for beverage, bakery and dairy applications."  

"Through research and innovation, we help our customers to meet the market's current and future needs," added Bob Liu, senior scientist, Nutrition Specialties, Asia Pacific, Ashland Specialty Ingredients. "The new grades of Aquacel cellulose gum have been developed by a global team to maximize synergies with guar gum, giving formulators flexibility in blending ratios and overall hydrocolloid dose. As such, these new cellulose gum grades offer formulators a strong alternative to guar."

FIC is the largest and most authoritative international show for food additives and ingredients in Asia. At this year's show, Mark Hines, principal scientist, Nutrition Specialties, Ashland Specialty Ingredients, will present a technical seminar focused on how these two new grades of cellulose gum can help alleviate some of the pressure facing food manufacturers from guar shortages.

"Ashland offers a wide range of health and nutrition ingredients by leveraging our global network of research scientists. Our focus is to provide product solutions that help our customers develop healthier and more nutritious products," said Nandu Dhekne, vice president, Asia Pacific, Ashland Specialty Ingredients. "In other words, we bring health to everyday life."