Description

Gelatine is a common gelling agent used in food. It has a clear and colourless appearance. It is obtained from collagen present in the bones and skin of pigs, cows, goats, and other animals. It may also be derived from fish bones. However, it is purified then dried and packaged for use. "Gelatine" comes from the Latin word "gelatus" which means "jellied or froze". It was used in Europe initially, when a French man named Denis Papin, obtained in from the bones of animals in order to produce a gelatinous pastry, Gelatine is brittle when dry and turns gummy when moist. It comes in various forms like sheets or powder. Sheet gelatin comes in four different strengths: bronze, silver, gold, and platinum. The "bloom strength" (how much the gelatin swells) determines each level. When the bloom strength is higher, the higher the melting point of the gel and shorter the gelling set time. Some factors increase the gel strength of the gelatine like milk and sugar while salt, acidic foods like wine, vinegar will decrease its strength.

Health benefits

• Gelatine may be helpful in decreasing joint pain due to inflammation due to the collagen present in it.⁽¹⁾
• It is rich in glutamic acid, which helps build healthy mucosal lining in the stomach that aids digestion by stimulating the production of gastric juices.⁽¹⁾
• Due to collagen present in it, gelatine greatly boosts skin health by making skin supple and wrinkle-free.⁽¹⁾
• It is a good source of protein and is very helpful for people who are recovering from any sickness as it helps build body tissues fast.⁽¹⁾
• It contains lysine, an amino acid, which helps the body absorb calcium from the diet, thus making bones strong and preventing any bone loss.⁽¹⁾

Selection Guide

Buy gelatine powder or sheet as per the requirement. Always buy from a reputed brand and within the expiry period.