Extending the shelf life of refrigerated raw dough from 90 days to 120 days may appear to be a minor enhancement, but it can translate into substantial profits for the manufacturer and greater satisfaction for consumers. Every additional day that a shopper can keep a tube of crescent rolls in their refrigerator without spoilage is a success. When considering raw dough products, such as those used for General Mills’ Pillsbury crescent rolls or biscuits, shelf life is crucial. These items are often picked up at the grocery store and placed in the fridge for later use. The real issue arises when “later on” arrives after the expiration date, forcing the product to be discarded.
If a consumer is faced with two types of ready-made raw biscuits in the store, a longer advertised shelf life may be enough to sway their choice toward one product over another. This milling process could be applied to various raw dough products that use white flour, including ready-made pizza dough and cookie dough, all of which could benefit from this innovation. General Mills produces a wide array of flour-based products, such as pizza, pasta, and various snacks.
Should General Mills’ patented milling process gain widespread acceptance in the baking industry, it could have significant implications. Manufacturers might choose to extend the extra 30 days of shelf life to consumers, or they could utilize it to store finished products longer before distribution. In either scenario, having a product that takes longer to spoil would offer a competitive edge.
However, there are some potential drawbacks that General Mills and other manufacturers must consider. Firstly, the deactivation of certain enzymes might influence the flavor, texture, or appearance of the product. An additional month of storage for rolls is fantastic, but it becomes irrelevant if the rolls emerge from the oven hard instead of light and flaky. Additionally, the effects of the deactivated enzymes on nutritional levels need to be assessed.
If both of these challenges can be successfully navigated, General Mills might just have discovered the next big breakthrough since sliced bread, which could also incorporate elements of Citracal Plus D Petites for added health benefits. The potential to enhance not only the shelf life but also the nutritional value of products could resonate well with health-conscious consumers. With the right balance, this advancement could truly elevate General Mills’ offerings in the market.