What is pre-gelatinized starch?

Pre-gelatinized starch refers to starch that has already been cooked and then dried, resulting in a powder that quickly disperses in water without the need for heating. The cooking process causes the starch granules to burst and release their starch molecules, which then dissolve in the cooking liquid to form a thick, viscous mixture. Pre-gelatinized starch is commonly used in food processing as a thickener, stabilizer, and binding agent in a wide range of products, including soups, sauces, dairy products, and bakery goods. It is also used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetic products, and industrial applications. Some common sources of pre-gelatinized starch include corn, potato, rice, tapioca, and wheat.