Simulated frozen beverage composition and method of manufacture thereof

US6712237B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• THE COCA-COLA COMPANY · US

Inventors

• Augusto S. Medina · Atlanta, US
• Roger C. Whigham · Atlanta, US
• John J. Fisher · Taylors, US
• Barbara Gann · Marietta, US
• Kenneth S. Weinaug · Lilburn, US
• Richard Staten · Atlanta, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Feb 27, 2002
• Grant date: Mar 30, 2004
• Expiry date: Jun 29, 2022

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A23L2/52
• WIPO field: Food chemistry
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

Compositions and methods are provided to simulate the appearance of frozen beverages, such as fruit drink slushes or frozen coffees. The composition includes a carrier fluid which comprises water, a thickening agent, and a colorant; and simulated ice crystals stably and uniformly dispersed in the carrier fluid. The simulated ice crystals are comprised of particles, preferably polymeric particles having a size between about 200 and about 400 microns. The thickening agent preferably comprises a slurry of propylene glycol alginate dispersed in propylene glycol. The colorant is selected based on the “flavor” being simulated, for example, yellow for lemonade, caramel color for coffee or cola. The polymeric particles preferably comprise a polymer such as high density polyethylene.