Caseinates are produced by the neutralization of acid casein with alkali. All caseinates are substantially water-soluble and are typically prepared as a solution of about 20% solids prior to spray drying.
The film-forming properties of soluble casein products, such as sodium and calcium caseinates. This specific property of casein products was recognized many years ago when casein was used in technical, non-food applications such as paper coating, and in paints and leather finishing. Commercially, the film-forming ability of caseinates in foods is seen at the oil-water interface in the formation of emulsions in coffee whiteners, desserts, and whipped toppings, and at the air-water interface in whipping and foaming products (such as whipped toppings). These same properties have been used in the production of sausage skins. More recently, caseinates have been used to coat fruit and vegetable products as a means of maintaining their freshness. As a hydrophilic (water-loving) substance, casein produces films that, on their own, are not very resistant to the passage of moisture vapor.