| abstract |
Agglomerates of spices and herbs are held together by a binding matrix, rather than sugars, and are formed by providing a dry mix of spices and herbs in particulate form, such as flakes, and starch-based matrix- forming material, optionally along with other components. These are then mixed with water to hydrate the binding matrix and allow it to bind the bulk materials together. The resulting blend is extruded through an outlet with a relatively open or no die so that any back pressure and heat generated is sufficient to permit the matrix material to set and bind the particulate spices and herbs without excess heat. The agglomerates extruded from the extruder are cut into pieces of the desired size and dried to final desired moisture content. |