Product Description
Ingredients: tapioca starch
Cassava, or tapioca, is a plant originating from Central and South America, but today it is cultivated on large areas in Asia and Africa as well. It is primarily the plant's tuber that is used, which is the world's most important source of carbohydrates after rice and maize.
The tapioca tuber is not suitable for human consumption raw, but after processing, the products available in stores do not pose a problem. It is mainly used in the form of pearls and powder, but it is also used to make animal feed and due to its high starch content, it can serve as a raw material for the textile and paper industry. Interestingly, glue and alcohol are also made from it, and it plays a prominent role in biofuel production as well.
In some countries, the plant's leaves are also consumed, which contain a wider range of nutrients than the tuber.
In South America, flat, unleavened bread is made from tapioca starch. It is often used in various flour blends, for example, with seed flours. Since it is gluten-free, it is also commonly found in foods intended for those sensitive to gluten.
Importance, impacts:
Tapioca starch contains only carbohydrates (starch). It has insignificant amounts of vitamins and minerals. Low in sodium. Gluten-free.
Usage:
Due to its high starch content, it is an excellent thickening and jellifying agent, but it can also be used as a soup ingredient. It is also suitable for making breads and pastries. It has no taste or color, making it versatile for use in any dish.