Technology Summary

The subject invention uses high-pressure jet processing (HJP) to increase casein-cocoa interactions which stabilizes cocoa particles in chocolate skim milk. The subject invention has the potential to be used as an alternative processing method for the stabilization of cocoa particles in commercially available chocolate milk. Kappa–carrageenan is currently used in the food industry to stabilize these particles; however kappa–carrageenan as a food ingredient has been under scrutiny due to studies suggesting adverse health effects. Experimentation by the researchers has shown the HJP under the right conditions can lead to the prevention of any phase separation of chocolate milk during a fourteen day evaluation period while stored at 4°C.