What are the applications of magnesium sulfate in food processing?

       Magnesium sulfate (MgSO ₄) has various applications in food processing, mainly as a nutritional enhancer, stabilizer, coagulant, leavening agent, and flavoring agent. Here are its specific applications:
       1、 Nutritional fortifiers
       Supplementing with magnesium: Magnesium is one of the essential minerals for the human body, involved in various physiological processes such as bone health, nerve conduction, heart function, and maintenance of the immune system. Food grade magnesium sulfate, as a magnesium supplement, can help meet the body's demand for magnesium and maintain normal bodily functions.
       Health food and nutritional supplements: In the health food and nutritional supplement industry, food grade magnesium sulfate has become an important ingredient due to the magnesium element it provides.
       2、 Stabilizers and coagulants
       Improving food texture: In the production of bean products (such as tofu and dried tofu), magnesium sulfate can combine with soybean protein to promote the solidification of protein and make the finished product more compact.
       Stable dairy products and beverages: Magnesium sulfate can be used as a stabilizer in beverages, dairy products, and other beverages to prevent layering and precipitation, while regulating acidity and alkalinity to extend shelf life.
       Enhancing dough stability: In the production of bread and pastries, food grade magnesium sulfate can serve as a dough conditioner, improving the stability and extensibility of the dough, making it softer, more uniform, and extending its shelf life.
       3、 Leavening agent
       Baked goods: In baked goods such as bread, pastries, and cookies, magnesium sulfate can react with acid to produce carbon dioxide gas, making the food fluffy, porous, and crispy in taste.

       4、 Seasoning agent
       Enhance flavor: Magnesium sulfate has a certain bitterness and can enhance the flavor of certain foods, making them more rich and complex. For example, adding magnesium sulfate in moderation to bitter drinks and bitter chocolate can enhance their taste experience.
       5、 Antioxidants and preservatives
       Extended shelf life: Magnesium sulfate has good antibacterial and antioxidant properties, which can effectively extend the shelf life of food. Adding an appropriate amount of food grade magnesium sulfate during the processing and storage of vegetables, fruits, and meat can inhibit microbial growth, maintain the freshness and nutritional value of the food.
       6、 Other applications
       Canned fruit processing: Adding an appropriate amount of magnesium sulfate in the processing of canned fruits can reduce the oxidative browning of the flesh, thereby maintaining the appearance and nutritional value of the product.
       Fermentation assistant: In fermented foods such as bread and beer, magnesium sulfate provides essential magnesium ions for yeast, promoting fermentation efficiency and enhancing flavor.
       Precautions
       Strictly control the amount: According to national standards (such as GB 29207), the amount added to food usually does not exceed 0.1% -0.5%. Excessive intake may lead to diarrhea, electrolyte imbalance, and in severe cases, cause hypotension or respiratory depression.
       Target audience: Patients with renal insufficiency, pregnant women, and lactating women should use with caution.
       Interaction with drugs: Magnesium sulfate may affect the absorption of some antibiotics (such as tetracyclines) and should be taken intermittently; Combined use with antihypertensive drugs and sedatives may enhance side effects.
       Magnesium sulfate has a wide range of applications in food processing, not only improving the quality and taste of food, but also supplementing the magnesium element needed by the human body. However, strict control of the dosage is required during use to avoid the potential adverse effects of excessive intake.