The might of marinades: meat scientists have a different view of marinades than do chefs. For a restaurant chef, meat is marinated to improve the flavor and texture. Sometimes, the marinade is a part of a classic gourmet recipe such as sauerbraten. At other times, it is a signature elixir on which a chef has built a reputation

Prepared Foods, Sept, 2003 by J. Hugh McEvoy

Whether it's a new Latin American-inspired soup, grilled "veggie" burger or Asian-flavored chicken, shoppers expect foods to incorporate authentic flavors and taste great. To this end, INNOVA has introduced its ROBUST[R] product line. ROBUST Replica[TM] flavors are designed to provide the meaty taste of beef, poultry, pork or other meat types, without the use of real meat products--a great solution for vegetarian and other meatless applications. Robust Ultima[TM] is the perfect solution when products require excellent taste without additives such as MSG, for example. ROBUST Optima[TM] flavors are meat-and HVP-(hydrolyzed vegetable protein) based. This line offers a broad range of high-impact flavor options and optimum flexibility in label declaration. INNOVA, 800-246-9223

Items that must be refrigerated during storage cost more and require more care during distribution. To address these cost and handling issues, a new line of shelf stable, highly concentrated sauteed vegetable pastes is now available from Nikken Foods Co. The company's new Sauteed Onion Paste, Sauteed Minced Onion Paste and Sauteed Garlic Paste all ore room temperature and shelf stable for 12 months. They are fully sterilized and have a consistently clean, non-salty taste and aroma. The concentrates should be refrigerated immediately upon opening. Samples are available. Nikken Foods Co., Herb Bench, 502-292-3285

Made from fermented wheat protein, this natural flavor enhancer can be used as a replacement for hydrolyzed vegetable proteins and monosodium glutamate. Kikkoman's NFE-S is high in glutamic acid, which provides a clean, balanced, brothy umami flavor to a variety of products. Its mild aroma and neutral, light golden-tan color make it ideal for a broad range of savory applications, including meat, poultry, seafood, soups, dry mixes and seasoning blends. Kikkoman International Inc., 415-956-7750, www.kikkoman-usa.com

Great pride is taken in balancing their ingredients to include the proper blend of aroma, taste, appearance and texture not normally found in low-fat items. Wynn Starr Specially Foods and Flavors has created an extensive line of marinades, sauces, glaze systems and specific flavor innovations targeted at reducing fat and sodium. These applications enhance lean beef, pork and chicken in commercial processing. Wynn Starr, Roland Abate, 800-996-7827, rabate@wynnstarr.com

Now available is a wide selection of products to bring that savory flavor to all your applications. For label identity and essential tastes necessary for flavor systems, start with IDF[R] Meat Powders. Far a rich roasted flavor or a smooth, savory finish, IDIF[R] Broth Powders offer an agglomerated texture that is particularly suited for soups, bases, marinades, and injection solutions. IDF[R] Fat and Broth Powders provide the savory flavor and creamy mouthfeel you have been looking for in your sauces, soups, gravies, and more. IDF/International Dehydrated Foods Inc., 800-641-6509, customerservice@idf.com, www.idf.com