REDUCED TRANS AND SATURATED FATTY ACID SPREAD COMPOSITIONS

RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 13/366,201 , filed on February 3, 2012, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

FIELD

[0002] Provided herein are spread compositions having reduced levels of saturated and trans fatty acids as compared to the traditional spread compositions. The compositions provided herein comprise a seeding agent, a cellulose fiber, water, and a base oil. Also provided are methods of preparing such compositions and uses thereof.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Recent trends in the field of spread products have been directed to the development of reduced trans fat and reduced saturated fat products which also possess the desired functional properties, including the texture and spreadability. While reduced trans fat and reduced saturated fat spreads are desirable, it has been observed that spreads having less than about 40% fat suffer from severe emulsion instability after prolonged storage at refrigerator temperature. Pools of oil and moisture are observed in such products and it is believed that the fat of the products recrystallize upon storage causing the emulsion instability problem.

[0004] To address this problem, in part, substantial work has been carried out with bulking agents such as powdered and microcrystalline cellulose in the spread products. However, reducing the trans fats and saturated fats adversely affect the organoleptic properties of the products and create undesirable mouthcoating or drying sensation.

[0005] There is a continuing need for spread compositions having reduced levels of saturated fats and trans fats, and acceptable mouthfeel and physical properties for handling and food preparation.

SUMMARY

[0006] In certain embodiments, provided herein are spread compositions with reduced levels of both trans fatty acids and saturated fatty acids, wherein the compositions comprise a seeding agent, a cellulose fiber, a base oil and an aqueous phase.

[0007] In certain embodiments, the spread compositions provided herein comprise about 40- 65% aqueous phase, 1-25% seeding agent, 1-15% cellulose fiber, and 10-40 % base oil based on the total weight of the composition. In certain embodiments, the spread compositions provided herein comprise about 40-60% water, 3-19% seeding agent, 3-10% cellulose fiber, and 15-19%) base oil based on the total weight of the composition.

[0008] The seeding agent used herein is a blend of a diacylglyceride (DAG), a

monoacylglyceride (MAG), and a triacylglyceride (TAG). In certain embodiments, the seeding agent comprises about 15-55% DAG, 4-15% MAG and 30-80% TAG based on the total weight of the seeding agent.

[0009] In certain embodiments, the base oil used herein comprises triglycerides, fatty acids and fatty acid derivatives of natural or synthetic origin, including, but not limited to high oleic canola, soybean, palm, corn, sunflower, coconut oil, rapeseed, peanut, safflower, high oleic safflower oil, olive, cottonseed, or a mixture thereof.

[0010] In another embodiment, provided herein is a method for preparing the spread compositions described herein. In certain embodiments, the method comprises mixing the base oil and seeding agent to obtain an oil mixture, adding cellulose to the oil mixture to obtain an oil- cellulose mixture, adding water to the oil-cellulose mixture followed by shearing and cooling to provide the spread composition. The order of adding the ingredients can be changed as required by a particular process. In certain embodiments, cooling is carried out with agitation.

[0011] In certain embodiments, the spread compositions so produced have lower levels of saturated fats than the margarine compositions known in the art. In certain embodiment, the compositions provided herein are used in bakery products, e.g., cookies, cakes, pie crusts, breads, icings and other products in place of conventional margarine spreads.

[0012] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0013] Figure 1 provides a microscopic image of a sample of Example 42B using a polarized light source.

[0014] Figure 2 provides a microscopic image of a sample of Example 42B using a cross polarized light source.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015] Provided herein are spread compositions comprising a seeding agent, a cellulose fiber, water, and a base oil. Further provided are methods of making the compositions and uses of the compositions. The methods and compositions are described in detail in the sections below.

Definitions

[0016] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as is commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. All patents, applications, published applications and other publications are incorporated by reference in their entirety. In the event that there are a plurality of definitions for a term herein, those in this section prevail unless stated otherwise.

[0017] The term "seeding agent" or "specialty ester" as used herein refers to a blend of diglycerides (DAGs), monoglycerides (MAGs) and triglycerides (TAGs) in specific amounts. In certain embodiments, the seeding agent comprises about 15-55% DAGs and 4-15% MAGs and 30-80%) TAGs based on the total weight of the seeding agent. The seeding agent can be prepared using a method described herein or any method known to one of skill in the art.

[0018] The term "base oil" as used herein refers to an oil which is substantially liquid at room temperature and has an iodine value of greater than 70, or greater than 90. The base oil can be an unhydrogenated oil or a partially hydrogenated oil, a modified oil or a mixture thereof. Natural and synthetic fats and oils are included in this term.

[0019] The term "oil blend" refers to a blend comprising two or more oils suitable for use in the compositions herein. In one embodiment, the oil blend comprises palm oil and soybean oil. In certain embodiments, the oil blend comprises palm oil, palm stearin, soybean oil, and emulsifiers.

[0020] The term "saturates", "saturated fat", and "saturated fatty acids" as used herein refer to C ₄ to C ₂₆ fatty acids or esters containing no unsaturation.

[0021] The term "trans", and "trans fatty acids" as used herein refer to fatty acids and/or esters containing double bonds in the trans configuration, generally resulting from the hydrogenation or partial hydrogenation of a fat.

[0022] The term "iodine value" or "IV" as used herein refers to the number of grams of iodine equivalent to halogen adsorbed by a 100 gram sample of fat. The IV is a measure of the unsaturated linkages in a fat.

[0023] As used herein, "cellulose fiber" refers to a fibrous cellulose material obtained from plant sources. The fibrous nature of the material and the existence of capillaries that can take up oil is an important feature for the cellulose fiber used herein. Exemplary cellulose fibers are obtained from wood pulp, pea and bamboo.

[0024] As used herein, "oil phase" refers to a mixture or solution of one or more base oils, a seeding agent, a cellulose fiber, and one or more additives selected from emulsifiers, salt, preservatives, flavoring agents, coloring agents and other additives known to one of skill in the art.

[0025] As used herein, "aqueous phase" refers to water or an aqueous solution or mixture comprising water, and one or more additives selected from salt, preservatives, flavoring agents, coloring agents and other additives known to one of skill in the art.

[0026] It must be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an" and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "a vegetable oil" includes mixtures of two or more such vegetable oils, and the like. In one embodiment, reference to "a vegetable oil" includes interesterified and/or genetically modified oils.

[0027] All percent values are given as weight percent unless expressly stated otherwise.

Compositions

[0028] In certain embodiments, provided herein are spread compositions comprising a seeding agent, a cellulose fiber, water, and a base oil. Without being bound to any particular theory, it is believed that in certain embodiments, the cellulose fiber and seeding agent act synergistically to impart the desired crystalline structure to the composition. In certain embodiments, the compositions provided herein have about 15-60% less saturated and trans fatty acids as compared to the margarine compositions known in the art. In certain embodiments, the compositions provided herein have about 25-50%) less saturated and trans fatty acids as compared to the margarine compositions known in the art.

[0029] In certain embodiments, the compositions provided herein have about 15-50%) less saturated fatty acids as compared to the margarine compositions known in the art. In certain embodiments, the compositions provided herein have about 20-50%> less, about 25-50%> less, about 25-45%) less or about 30-40%> less saturated fatty acids as compared to the margarine compositions known in the art. In certain embodiments, the compositions provided herein have about 50%, 45%, 40%, 35%, 32%, 30%, 25%, 20% or 15% less saturated fatty acids as compared to the margarine compositions known in the art. [0030] In certain embodiments, the compositions provided herein have about 15-50% less trans fatty acids as compared to the margarine compositions known in the art. In certain embodiments, the compositions provided herein have about 20-50%) less, about 25-50%) less, about 25-45% less or about 25-40% less trans fatty acids as compared to the margarine compositions known in the art. In certain embodiments, the compositions provided herein have about 50%, 45%, 40%, 35%, 32%, 30%, 25%, 20% or 15% less trans fatty acids as compared to the margarine compositions known in the art.

[0031] In certain embodiments, the spread compositions provided herein comprise about 40- 65%) water, 1-25% seeding agent, 1-15% cellulose fiber, and 10-25%) base oil based on the total weight of the composition.

[0032] In certain embodiments, the spread compositions provided herein comprise about 40- 65%), 42-60%), 45-58%) or 45-55%) water based on the total weight of the composition. In certain embodiments, the spread compositions provided herein comprise about 40, 45, 50, 55, or 60%> water based on the total weight of the composition.

[0033] The seeding agent used in the compositions herein comprises a blend of a

diacylglyceride (DAG), a monoacylglyceride (MAG) and a triacylglyceride (TAG). In certain embodiments, the seeding agent further comprises free fatty acids and fatty acid derivatives.

[0034] In certain embodiments, the acyl portion in the diacylglyceride comprises saturated or unsaturated medium to long chain fatty acids. In certain embodiments, the acyl portion in the diacylglyceride comprises fatty acids selected from lauric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, behenic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid and linolenic acid.

[0035] In certain embodiments, the acyl portion in the monoacylglyceride comprises saturated or unsaturated medium to long chain fatty acids. In certain embodiments, the acyl portion in the monoacylglyceride comprises fatty acids selected from, lauric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, behenic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid and linolenic acid.

[0036] In certain embodiments, the acyl portion in the triacylglyceride comprises saturated or unsaturated medium to long chain fatty acids. In certain embodiments, the acyl portion in the triacylglyceride comprises fatty acids selected from lauric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, behenic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid and linolenic acid.

[0037] In certain embodiments, the seeding agent comprises about 15-55%) DAG based on the total weight of the seeding agent and a remaining portion comprising MAG and TGA. In certain embodiments, the remaining portion comprises TAG, free fatty acids and free fatty acid esters.

[0038] In certain embodiments, the seeding agent comprises about 20-50% DAG based on the total weight of the seeding agent, 4-15% MAG based on the total weight of the seeding agent and remaining portion comprising TAG. In certain embodiments, the seeding agent comprises about 20-50%) DAG based on the total weight of the seeding agent, 4-15% MAG based on the total weight of the seeding agent and remaining portion comprising TAGs, free acids and fatty acid derivatives. In certain embodiments, the seeding agent comprises about 20-50%) DAG, 4- 15% MAG and 30-70% TAG based on the total weight of the seeding agent. In certain embodiments, the seeding agent comprises about 30-35% DAG, 8-10% MAG and 50-60% TAG based on the total weight of the seeding agent. In certain embodiments, the seeding agent comprises about 15-55%, 25-50%, 30-50%, 20-40%, 25-35% or 30-35% DAG based on the total weight of the seeding agent. In certain embodiments, the seeding agent comprises about 25-35%) DAG based on the total weight of the seeding agent. In certain embodiments, the seeding agent comprises about 5-10%, 6-10%, 7-10% or 8-10% MAG based on the total weight of the seeding agent. In certain embodiments, the seeding agent comprises about 8-10% MAG based on the total weight of the seeding agent. In certain embodiments, the seeding agent comprises about 35-75%, 35-70%, 40-70%, 45-65% or 45-70% TAG based on the total weight of the seeding agent. In certain embodiments, the seeding agent comprises about 45-70%) TAG based on the total weight of the seeding agent. In certain embodiments, the seeding agent further comprises about 1-30%) free fatty acids and fatty acid derivatives based on the total weight of the seeding agent. In certain embodiments, the seeding agent comprises about 5-30%>, 10-30%), 5-15%, 15- 30%) or 10-20%) free fatty acids and fatty acid derivatives based on the total weight of the seeding agent. In certain embodiments, the seeding agent comprises about 25-40% DAG based on the total weight of the seeding agent, 6-12% MAG based on the total weight of the seeding agent and remaining portion comprising TAG, free fatty acids and free fatty acid esters. In certain embodiments, the seeding agent comprises about 25-40% DAG, 6-12% MAG and 45-65% TAG based on the total weight of the seeding agent. In certain embodiments, the seeding agent comprises about 30-35%) DAG based on the total weight of the seeding agent, 8-10% MAG based on the total weight of the seeding agent and remaining portion comprising TAG, free fatty acids and free fatty acid esters. In certain embodiments, the seeding agent comprises about 30- 35% DAG, 8-10% MAG and 45-50% TAG based on the total weight of the seeding agent.

[0039] In certain embodiments, the spread compositions provided herein comprise about 1- 25%, 1-20%, 2-20%, 3-20%, 3-19%, 4-17%, 5-17% or 6-20% seeding agent based on the total weight of the composition. In certain embodiments, the spread compositions provided herein comprise about 5, 8, 9, 10, 15, 17, 19 or 20%> seeding agent based on the total weight of the composition.

[0040] Any cellulose material having fibrous nature and capillaries that can take up oil can be used in the compositions provided herein. In certain embodiments, the cellulose fibers for use herein are obtained from plant sources, including but not limited to wood pulp, bamboo, pea, citrus fruit and sugar beets. In certain embodiments, the cellulose fibers are obtained from bamboo. In certain embodiments, the cellulose fibers have an average fiber length of about 15- 50 micron, 20-50 micron, 20-40 micron, 25-35 micron, or 25-40 micron. In certain

embodiments, the cellulose fibers have an average fiber length of about 25, 30 or 35 micron. In certain embodiments, the cellulose fibers have an average fiber thickness of about 0.5-5 micron, 1-5 micron, 1-3 micron, or 1-2 micron. In certain embodiments, the cellulose fibers have an average fiber length of about 1-2 micron. In certain embodiments, the cellulose fiber used is CREAFIBE QC 40. In certain embodiments, the cellulose fiber used is Solka-Floc 300 FCC. In certain embodiments, cellulose fibers having a range of average lengths, processed from different source materials and of different levels of purity can be used.

[0041] In certain embodiments, the compositions provided herein comprise the cellulose fiber in an amount from about 1 to about 15% by weight based on the total weight of the composition. In certain embodiments, the amount of the cellulose fiber in the compositions is about 1% - 10%, about 3% - 10%, about 3% - 7%, about 4% - 7% or about 2% - 5% by weight based on the total weight of the composition. In certain embodiments, the amount of the cellulose fiber in the compositions is about 3% - 5% or about 4% - 5% by weight based on the total weight of the composition. In certain embodiments, the amount of the cellulose fiber in the compositions is about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 or 15% by weight based on the total weight of the composition. In certain embodiments, the amount of the cellulose fiber in the compositions is about 5% by weight based on the total weight of the composition. [0042] In certain embodiments, the base oil used herein comprises one or more saturated or unsaturated triglycerides, fatty acids and fatty acid derivatives of natural or synthetic origin. In certain embodiments, base oil is any oil or mixture of oils that is substantially liquid at room temperature and has an iodine value of greater than 70, greater than 80 or greater than 90. In certain embodiments, the base oil has an iodine value of about 70-100, 80-95, 85-95 or 90-95. In certain embodiments, the base oil has an iodine value of about 70, 80, 85, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93 or 95. Examples of fatty acids include without limitation, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, alpha-linolenic acid, arachidonic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, erucic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, behenic acid, or combinations thereof. The sources of fatty acids are generally substrates of natural origin. Suitable substrates of natural origin include without limitation, vegetable oils, rapeseed oil, animal fats, corn oil, canola oil, olive oil, cottonseed oil, safflower oil, high oleic safflower oil, palm oil, soybean oil, sunflower oil, peanut oil, coconut oil, or other oils and triglycerides of natural origin, as well as fatty acids and/or fatty acid derivatives obtained therefrom. In certain embodiments, the base oil used herein comprises high oleic canola oil, soybean oil, palm oil, corn oil, sunflower oil, rapeseed oil, peanut oil, safflower oil, high oleic safflower oil, olive oil, cottonseed oil, or a mixture thereof. In certain

embodiments, the base oil used herein further comprises an emulsifier. In certain embodiments, the base oil used herein comprises soybean oil, palm oil, or a mixture thereof. In certain embodiments, the base oil used herein comprises a blend of palm oil, palm stearin, soybean oil, and emulsifiers. In certain embodiments, the emulsifier comprises monoglycerides and diglycerides. In certain embodiments, the emulsifier is Estric™ (available from Bunge). In certain embodiments, the base oil used herein comprises a blend of hydrogenated soybean oil and fully hydrogenated cottonseed oil.

[0043] In certain embodiments, the amount of base oil in the composition is about 5-50 % by weight based on the total weight of the composition. In certain embodiments, the amount of base oil in the composition is about 5-40%, 10-40%, 20-40%, 15-35%, or 15-30% by weight based on the total weight of the composition.

[0044] In certain embodiments, the base oil comprises soybean oil, palm oil, corn oil, sunflower oil, rapeseed oil, peanut oil, safflower oil, high oleic safflower oil, olive oil, cottonseed oil, or a mixture thereof, from about 3-20 % by weight based on the total weight of the composition. In certain embodiments, the composition comprises soybean oil from about 3- 15%, 3-12 % or 5-20% by weight based on the total weight of the composition. In certain embodiments, the amount of soybean oil in the composition is about 3, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19 or 20 % by weight based on the total weight of the composition.

[0045] In certain embodiments, the base oil comprises an oil blend comprising palm oil and soybean oil. In certain embodiments, the base oil is an oil blend comprising palm oil, palm stearin, soybean oil, and Estric™ (available from Bunge). In certain embodiments, the amount of the oil blend in the composition is about 15, 17, 19, 23, 25, 27, 36 or 40%> by weight based on the total weight of the composition. In certain embodiments, the amount of soybean oil in the oil blend is about 10-30 % by weight based on the total weight of the oil blend. In certain embodiments, the amount of soybean oil in the oil blend is about 10-20 % by weight based on the total weight of the oil blend. In certain embodiments, the amount of soybean oil in the soybean and palm oil blend is about 10, 13, 15, 18, 20, 22, 24, 25, 27 or 30 % by weight based on the total weight of the oil blend. In certain embodiments, the amount of palm oil in the oil blend is about 60-95 % by weight based on the total weight of the oil blend. In certain embodiments, the amount of palm oil in the oil blend is about 60, 65, 69, 70, 75, 77, 80, 82, 84, 86, 88, 90, 92 or 95 % by weight based on the total weight of the oil blend. In certain

embodiments, the amount of palm stearin in the oil blend is about 10-25 % by weight based on the total weight of the oil blend. In certain embodiments, the amount of palm stearin in the oil blend is about 10, 12, 15, 17, 20, 23, or 25 % by weight based on the total weight of the oil blend. In certain embodiments, the oil blend further comprises an emulsifier, such as Estrin™, in an amount from about 0.5-3%, 0.5-2%, 0.5-1% or about 1% by weight based on the total weight of the oil blend.

[0046] In certain embodiments, the compositions provided herein further comprise one or more additives. Common additives that can be added to the shortening compositions provided herein include, but are not limited to stabilizers, flavoring agents, emulsifiers, anti-spattering agents, colorants, or antioxidants. Exemplary additives are described, for example, in Campbell et al, Food Fats and Oils, 8th Ed., Institute of Shortening and Edible Oils, Washington, D.C.

[0047] In certain embodiments, the compositions further comprise a preservative or an antioxidant. A wide variety of preservatives and antioxidants are suitable for use, including but not limited to butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), tertiary butylhydroquinone (TBHQ), ethylenediaminetetracetic acid (EDTA), gallate esters {i.e. propyl gallate, butyl gallate, octyl gallate, dodecyl gallate, etc.), tocopherols, lactic acid, citric acid, citric acid esters (i.e. isopropyl citrate, etc.), gum guaiac, nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA), thiodipropionic acid, ascorbic acid, ascorbic acid esters (i.e. ascorbyl palmitate, ascorbyl oleate, ascorbyl stearate, etc.) tartaric acid, lecithin, methyl silicone, sodium benzoate, polymeric antioxidant (Anoxomer) plant (or spice and herb) extracts (i.e. rosemary, sage, oregano, thyme, marjoram, etc.) and mixtures thereof.

[0048] In certain embodiments, the spread formulations further comprise an emulsifier. A wide variety of emulsifiers are suitable for use, including but not limited to mono- and diglycerides, distilled monoglycerides, polyglycerol esters of C ₁₂ to C22 fatty acids, propylene glycol mono and diesters of C ₁₂ to C ₂₂ fatty acids, sucrose mono- and diesters of C ₁₄ to C ₂₂ fatty acids.

[0049] In certain embodiments, the spread formulations further comprise additional ingredients, such as salt, coloring and flavoring agents. In certain embodiments the flavoring agents include butter flavoring agents, meat flavoring agents, tallow flavoring agents, olive oil flavoring agents and other natural or synthetic flavoring agents. In certain embodiments, vitamins can be included in the compositions provided herein. In certain embodiments, various other additives can be used in the spread compositions provided that they are edible and aesthetically desirable.

[0050] In certain embodiments, the spread compositions provided herein comprise about 40-55% water, 7-20% seeding agent, 3-6% cellulose fiber, 10-50% base oil, and remaining amount of additives based on the total weight of the composition.

[0051] In certain embodiments, the spread compositions provided herein comprise about 40-55%) water, 7-20% seeding agent, 3-6% cellulose fiber, 10-28% oil blend comprising palm and soybean oil, 3-20% soybean oil and remaining amount of additives based on the total weight of the composition.

[0052] In certain embodiments, the spread compositions provided herein comprise about

40-55% water, 7-20% seeding agent, 3-6% cellulose fiber, 10-28% oil blend,

3-20% soybean oil and remaining amount of additives based on the total weight of the composition. [0053] In certain embodiments, the spread compositions provided herein comprise about 55% water, 8% seeding agent, 5% cellulose fiber, 22% oil blend, 5% soybean oil and remaining amount of additives based on the total weight of the composition.

[0054] In certain embodiments, the spread compositions provided herein comprise about 55%) water, 10% seeding agent, 5% cellulose fiber, 18% oil blend, 7% soybean oil and remaining amount of additives based on the total weight of the composition.

[0055] In certain embodiments, the spread compositions provided herein comprise about 45%o water, 9% seeding agent, 5% cellulose fiber, 24% oil blend, 12% soybean oil and remaining amount of additives based on the total weight of the composition.

[0056] In certain embodiments, the spread compositions provided herein comprise about 56%o water, 15% seeding agent, 5% cellulose fiber, 16% oil blend, 3% soybean oil and remaining amount of additives based on the total weight of the composition.

[0057] In certain embodiments, the spread compositions provided herein comprise about 53%o water, 17% seeding agent, 5% cellulose fiber, 12% oil blend, 7% soybean oil and remaining amount of additives based on the total weight of the composition.

[0058] In certain embodiments, the spread compositions provided herein comprise about 53%o water, 17% seeding agent, 5% cellulose fiber, 12% oil blend, 7% soybean oil and remaining amount of additives based on the total weight of the composition.

Methods of Preparation

[0059] Starting materials used in preparing the compositions provided herein are either known or can be prepared according to known methods.

[0060] In certain embodiments, the methods of preparation comprise the steps of mixing a seeding agent with a base oil to obtain an oil mixture, mixing cellulose with the oil mixture to obtain an oil-fiber blend, adding an aqueous phase to the oil- fiber blend, mixing to obtain a homogeneous composition, and cooling. In one embodiment, the homogeneous composition is cooled with agitation in an ice cream maker, to promote a crystal structure that imparts the desired physical properties to the composition.

[0061] The order of adding the ingredients and heating the ingredients can be changed as required by a particular process. In certain embodiments, the oil mixture and cellulose fiber are mixed at about 50-80 °C. In certain embodiments, the oil-fiber blend and aqueous phase are mixed at about 50-80 °C. It is intended that the claims appended hereto shall not be limited by the order of the heating and mixing steps.

[0062] In one embodiment, provided herein is a method for preparing the spread

composition, wherein the method comprises a) mixing a seeding agent with a base oil (e.g.

soybean oil and oil blend comprising palm and soybean oil) to obtain an oil mixture b) blending together the oil mixture and a cellulose fiber to obtain an oil- fiber blend, and c) mixing an aqueous phase in the oil- fiber blend to obtain a homogeneous composition. In certain

embodiments, steps a), b) and/or c) are carried out at a temperature of about 50-80 °C, 55-75 °C, 60-75 °C or 60-70 °C. In certain embodiments, the mixing step c) is followed by cooling, optionally with agitation, to obtain a solidified composition. In certain embodiments, the cooling is performed at freezing temperatures. In certain embodiments, the cooling is performed at a temperature of about 25 °C, 20 °C, 15 °C, 10°C, 5°C, 0°C, -5°C or lower. In certain embodiments, the cooling is performed at a temperature of about 25 °C-10 °C, 25 °C-15°C, or 22°C-18°C. In certain embodiments, the cooling is performed in an ice-cream maker. In certain embodiments, the cooling is performed with agitation to obtain a solidified composition.

[0063] In certain embodiments, a mechanical agitator is used to obtain the mixture in step a), the oil-fiber blend in step b) and/or the homogeneous composition in step c). In one embodiment, in step b), the agitation is carried out till the cellulose fiber disperses into the oil. In certain embodiments, step a) is started at room temperature and the oil is heated up to a temperature of about 45, 50, 53, 55, 57, 59, 61, 63, 65, 67, 70, 73 or 75 °C while mixing. In certain embodiments, cellulose fiber is added to the oil mixture at about 45, 50, 53, 55, 57, 59, 61, 63, 65, 67, 70, 73 or 75 °C. In certain embodiments, the blend is mixed for about 3-15 minutes, or 3-10 minutes.

[0064] In another embodiment, the method comprises a) blending together one or more base oils and a seeding agent to obtain an oil-ester blend, and b) mixing cellulose fiber with the oil- ester blend to obtain an oil phase. In certain embodiments, steps a) and b) are carried out at a temperature of about 40-95 °C, 50-75 °C, 50-70 °C, 60-75 °C or 60-70 °C.

[0065] The mixing of the cellulose fiber and base oils can be accomplished using techniques known in the art.

[0066] The seeding agent can be prepared using techniques known in the art. In one embodiment, the starting raw material (i.e. palm, palm stearine, behenic FFA, soy, canola, hear oil and other various oil and FFA blends) is heated to a temperature of about 120-150°C; about 3-5% by weight glycerin is added while heating is continued. About 0.2%> by weight CaOH powder is added at 165°C and reaction continued for about 90 minutes within a temperature range of about 165°C-175°C. The reaction mixture is cooled to about 125°C-130°C, and about 0.375%) by weight of 85% phosphoric acid is added with mixing to neutralize. Mixing is continued for about 10 minutes, and about 0.5% by weight each of Trisyl and filter aid are added with mixing. The mixture is filtered after about 10 minutes. In certain embodiments, the filtered material is deodorized for 4 hours using techniques known in the art.

[0067] In one embodiment, the mixture is continuously sparged with nitrogen and agitating at approximately 450-600 rpm throughout the reaction, neutralization and post-treatment process.

[0068] The spread compositions produced herein can be used to produce a variety of foods including, but not limited to, cakes, icings, breads, brownies, pie crusts, croissants, cookies or pastry puffs. With the reduction in total saturated and trans fat content, food products produced with the compositions described herein can provide health benefits.

[0069] The following examples present certain exemplary embodiments and are intended by way of illustration and not by way of limitation. In each of the examples herein, percentages indicate weight percent of the total mixture, unless otherwise indicated.

EXAMPLES

[0070] The following examples are put forth so as to provide those of ordinary skill in the art with a complete disclosure and description of how the compounds, compositions, and methods described and claimed herein are made and evaluated, and are intended to be purely exemplary and are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. Unless indicated otherwise, parts are parts by weight, temperature is in °C or is at ambient temperature, and pressure is at or near atmospheric. There are numerous variations and combinations of reaction conditions, e.g., component concentrations, temperatures, pressures and other reaction ranges and conditions that can be used to optimize the product purity and yield obtained from the described process. Only reasonable and routine experimentation will be required to optimize such process conditions.

Examples 1-37

[0071] The compositions of Examples 1-37 described in Table 1 were prepared using the following general procedure: [0072] The seeding agent used in Examples 1-37 was prepared according to the procedure described in Example 38. The oil blend used in Examples 1-2 contained 87.5% partially hydrogenated soybean oil and 12.5% fully hydrogenated cottonseed oil. The oil blend used in Examples 3-37 contained 69% palm oil, 17% palm stearin, 13% soybean oil, and 1% Estric™ (available from Bunge).

[0073] Various additives used in examples are commercially available, for example, Vitamin A color premix is available from Vitamins Inc., Butter flavor is available from Abelei Inc., and PEG POLYALDO® is available from Lonza.

[0074] The cellulose fiber used in the examples is CREAFIBE QC 40.

[0075] The desired amounts of all oil phase ingredients, except cellulose, were weighed and mixed in a beaker. The desired amounts of aqueous phase ingredients were weighed and mixed in a separate beaker. Both the oil and aqueous phases were heated up to about 60°C -70°C. The desired amount of cellulosic fibrous material was added to the fully melted oil phase ingredients being held at 60°C-70°C. The mixture was stirred via a magnetic stirrer for about 2-4 minutes. The aqueous phase was added to the oil phase and stirred for another 2-4 minutes. The mixture containing oil and aqueous phases was poured into a stainless steel beaker and sheared at 4600-5100 rpm for 1-2 minutes.

[0076] The mixture was poured into frozen CUISINART® ICE 21 Ice Cream Maker frozen bowl and churned for 5-15 minutes. Sample were scooped out of bowl and placed in glass jars and allowed to stay at ambient temperature for 24 hours prior to evaluation of any

oiling/watering out and spreadability.

Table 1:

¹ In Example 1, the oil phase also contained distilled mono and diglycerides (0.29%), soybean lecithin (0.20%), vitamin A palmitate (0.0028%), beta-carotene (0.0020%). The aqueous phase contained sodium benzoate (0.100%) and lactic acid (0.05%).

² In Example 2, the oil phase also contained distilled mono and diglycerides (0.29%), soybean lecithin (0.50%), vitamin A palmitate (0.0028%), beta-carotene (0.0020%). The aqueous phase contained sodium benzoate (0.100%) and lactic acid (0.05%).

³ In Examples 35 and 36, the aqueous phase additionally contained sodium benzoate (0.10%) and lactic acid (0.05%).

Example 38

[0077] The seeding agent used in the compositions of Examples 1-37 described in Table 1 was prepared using the following general procedure. The starting raw material used in this particular example was palm oil. Other oils, including, but not limited to palm stearine, behenic FFA, soybean oil, canola oil, hear oil and FFA blends can be used in a similar reaction.

[0078] A 3-neck glass reaction vessel was charged with the starting raw material. The oil was heated to a temperature of 140°C. About 4% by weight glycerin was added and heating was continued till the temperature reached 165°C. The reaction mixture was continuously sparged with nitrogen and agitated at approximately 450-600 rpm throughout the reaction, neutralization and post-treatment process.

[0079] About 0.2% by weight CaOH powder was added at 165°C and reaction continued for 90 minutes within a temperature range of 165°C-175°C. The mixture was cooled to 125°C- 130°C and about 0.375% by weight of 85% cone, phosphoric acid was added to neutralize. Mixing was continued for 10 minutes. About 0.5% by weight each of trisyl and filter aid were added; mixing was continued for 10 minutes. The product was recovered by filtration, and filtered material was then deodorized for 4 hours at 226°-232°C and 0.114 -0.870 mbar.

Example 39

[0080] A spread composition similar to the composition of Example 35 was prepared using a blend of commercial TAGs, DAGs and MAGs instead of the seeding agent described in Example 37. The blend of commercial esters was prepared with: 52% Fully hydrogenated palm, 42% TRANCENDIM® and 6% BFP® 65 Palm. The spread composition was prepared using the general procedure as described above for Examples 1-37, and allowed to sit for 24 hours before evaluation.

Example 40

[0081] A comparison of the compositions of Example 35 and 39 indicated that the composition of Example 39 was softer in comparison to compositions made with the seeding agent (Example 35 ) and had a texture that tended to spread yet lump. The composition with the seeding agent (Example 35 ) had a smoother creamier texture and appearance. Example 41

[0082] The following compositions were prepared in a pilot plant on a 10 pound scale using a procedure described for Example 1-35. The oil blend contained 69% palm oil, 17% palm stearin, 13% soybean oil, and 1% Estric™ (available from Bunge).

Example 4 IB

Ingredient Name % in Formula

Oil Phase

Palm and soybean blend 18.0000

Seeding Agent 10.0000

Soybean Oil 7.0000

Cellulose Fiber 5.0000

PGE Polyaldo 2.0000

Aqueous Phase

Water 54.8600

Salt 2.9000

Sodium Benzoate 0.1000

Butter Flavor 0.0700

Lactic Acid 0.0500

Vitamin A, Color Premix 0.0200

[0083] The samples which were 10 lbs mini cubes were placed into the 70°F and 85°F temperature control rooms in order to examine the shelf life. In both compositions no signs of oiling out were observed in the 70°F environment after 3 months while slight oiling out was observed within the first month in the 85°F environment. Samples were also submitted for microbial analysis. Both of the samples demonstrated microbial stability over the course of three months.

[0084] Croissants, chocolate chip cookies, and sugar cookies were prepared using the pilot plant samples and compared with those prepared using Bunge™ NH 500 Baker's margarine. The fat and saturated fat content of the baked goods are shown in Table 2 below.

Table 2

Example 42

[0085] The following compositions were prepared on a 5 pound scale using a procedure described for Example 1-35. The oil blend contained 69% palm oil, 17% palm stearin, 13% soybean oil, and 1% Estric™ (available from Bunge).

Example 42B

Ingredient Name % in Formula

Oil Phase

Oil blend 16.0000

Seeding Agent 15.0000

Cellulose Fiber 5.0000

Soybean Oil 3.0000

PGE Polyaldo 2.0000

Aqueous Phase

Water 55.8600

Salt 2.9000

Sodium Benzoate 0.1000

Butter Flavor 0.0700

Lactic Acid 0.0500

Vitamin A, Color Premix 0.0200

[0086] Cakes, brownies, croissants, and garlic toast were prepared using these samples, and compared with those prepared using Bunge™ NH 500 Baker's margarine. The fat and saturated fat content of the food products are shown in Table 3 below.

Table 3

Example 43

[0087] Microscopic images of a sample composition of Example 42B were taken with polarized light, and are provided in Figures 1 and 2. The two images show the co-localization of the triglyceride/specialty ester mixture with that of the cellulosic fibrous material within the sample. Figure 1 utilizing a polarized light source shows a very dense well structured crystal matrix. Figure 2 is the same sample utilizing a cross polarized light source in order to show the cellulosic fibrous material. The co-localization points are the bright white spots observed in the same regions on both of the images. Figures 1 and 2 thus show the synergist relationship between the cellulosic fibrous material and the oil within the spread product.

Example 44

[0088] The following composition was prepared using a procedure described for Example 1- 35. The oil blend contained 69% palm oil, 17% palm stearin, 13% soybean oil, and 1% Estric™ (available from Bunge).

[0089] Cakes, croissants, pie crusts, icings and sugar cookies were prepared using this composition, and compared with those prepared using Vreamay® NH, Bunge™ NH 500 Baker's margarine and Vream® NH. The fat and saturated fat content of the food products are shown in Table 4 below.

Table 4

N/A = not availab e.

[0090] Throughout this application, various publications are referenced. The disclosures of these publications in their entireties are hereby incorporated by reference into this application in order to more fully describe the compounds, compositions and methods described herein.

[0091] Various modifications and variations can be made to the compounds, compositions and methods described herein. Other aspects of the compounds, compositions and methods described herein will be apparent from consideration of the specification and practice of the compounds, compositions and methods disclosed herein. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary.