ABSTRACT
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.
