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Whether you are developing a new product or looking to reformulate with an all-natural coating alternative for shellac or synthetics, FloZein or FloZein combination products are the solution.

A clean label replacement for shellac (also known as confectioners or pharmaceutical glaze), our Zein provides greater value:

  • Classified as a GRAS food ingredient by the U.S. FDA

  • Faster-drying, producing longer-lasting coatings

  • Provides a better seal with an equivalent number of coats

  • A more effective moisture barrier

  • A better coating for troublesome raw materials such as hygroscopic ingredients that pick up moisture easily

  • Cost effective since less product is needed in solution

F4400C-FG Zein
What is Zein?

Zein is a plant protein isolated from corn. This water-insoluble protein is one of the best understood biomacromolecules and classified as GRAS by the US Food and Drug Administration.  It is unique in its ability to form odorless, tasteless, clear, hard and almost invisible edible coating.

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Zein, a highly effective moisture barrier, is widely used in the food and pharma/nutraceutical industries for coating and encapsulation.

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Zein is remarkably resistant to bacterial attack, making it the ideal coating to extend the shelf life of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole and shelled nuts, and raw protein.

 

Zein may be cast or sprayed into a film which can be used to create biodegradable/edible plastics for products such as drinking straws, food containers, and bags.

 

Due to its inherent hydrophobicity and biodegradability, Zein nanoparticles have been successfully applied as a carrier for controlled release of hydrophobic drugs and as a biomaterial for the development of colloidal delivery systems. 

 

Zein can be combined with many different ingredients to create a wide range of coating properties and colors.

Zein Applications

Extended Shelf Life: Meets the the Department of Defense’s shelf life specification for nuts and dried fruit; 3 years at 80º F.

 

Encapsulation: Provides a protective surface against loss of internal moisture and edible fats and the external effects of oxygen and microbes.

 

Taste Barrier: Unpleasant tasting ingredients can be encapsulated with Zein.  Flavors can also be blended into Zein.

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Time Release: Coats powders, sweeteners and flavors for time release preparations.

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Enteric Coating: Protects active ingredients from attack by stomach acids.

 

Adhesive: Although fast drying, freshly applied Zein has tackiness, allowing for the introduction of flavors, additives, and inclusions.


Industrial: Proven effective in a variety of industrial applications, including: turbine blade repair, paper coating, inks, and biodegradable packaging for food and beverages.

The FloZein Advantage

Our Company: FloZein Products (a Flo Chemical Corporation company) has been producing Zein since 1976.

  • We are the only North American manufacturer of Zein.

  • We are licensed by the FDA as a food ingredient manufacturer and are GMP certified.

  • Our proprietary Freeman Process produces the highest quality Zein that is available.

  • We offer comprehensive application support to identify the product configuration that meets your requirements.

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Our Products:  FloZein Products offers Zein and Zein-combination products which are:

  • All-natural, clean label

  • Vegan, Ⓤ Kosher, and Halal compliant

  • Gluten, lactose, and sugar-free

  • GMO-free

  • USP monograph compliant

  • Digestible and biodegradable

  • Sourced and manufactured in the USA​

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