An improved method for controlling blister formation in fabricated, expanded
snack
products by utilizing discrete, solid lipid particles. These lipids must be solid
at room temperature with a melting point above 100 F. such that they remain
discrete and solid when mixed with the dough and are subsequently sheeted or extruded.
During the toasting, frying, or baking step, the solid, lipid particles melt and
soften and disrupt the starch matrix, thus allowing steam to escape and preventing
blisters. The blisters are only prevented, however, in the localized area where
a solid, lipid particle exists. Thus, by changing the level of solid, lipid particles
in the dough, the size of resulting blisters can be controlled.
