Performance of cellulose derivatives in deep-fried battered snacks: Oil barrier and crispy properties

The performance of batters containing cellulose derivatives (methyl cellulose (A4M), three hydroxypropylmethyl celluloses (E4M, F4M and K4M) with different degree of hydroxypropyl and/or methyl substitution and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC)) to produce crispy deep-fried snacks crusts was studied by using a deep-fried crust model. Their performance was compared in terms of their ability to retain moisture content, to decrease oil content and the effect on crispness. Thermogelation properties of the cellulose derivatives depended on the type and degree of substitution. All increased the water content and decreased the oil content of the deep-fried crusts, except for CMC, which does not thermogelate and did not increase the amount of water retained in the crust, although a decrease in the oil content was found. The highest oil reduction and the lowest water retention were found for the cellulose with the lowest level of methyl substitution (K4M). The sound emitted during fracture of K4M crusts had higher intensity than the other cellulose derivatives indicating a crispier crust.