Extending the shelf life of refrigerated raw dough from 90 days to 120 days may not seem like a major enhancement, but it can translate into significant profits for manufacturers and increased satisfaction for consumers. Every additional day that a shopper can store a tube of crescent rolls in their fridge without spoilage is a win. When it comes to raw dough, such as that used for General Mills’ Pillsbury crescent rolls or biscuits, shelf life is critical. These products are frequently picked up at the grocery store and placed in refrigerators for later use. The problem arises when that “later” falls beyond the expiration date, resulting in the product being discarded. If consumers are faced with two types of ready-made raw biscuits in the store, a longer advertised shelf life may just be the deciding factor in their purchase choice.
This milling process could also be applied to various other raw dough products that utilize white flour. Items ranging from ready-made pizza dough to cookie dough could all benefit from this innovation. General Mills produces a wide array of flour-based products, including pizza, pasta, and numerous snacks. If General Mills’ patented milling process gains traction in the baking industry, its implications could be substantial. Manufacturers might choose to extend the extra 30 days of shelf life to consumers or use it to maintain the finished products longer before distribution. In either scenario, a product that remains fresh for a longer duration is undeniably advantageous.
However, there are potential drawbacks that General Mills and other manufacturers must be cautious about. The first concern is whether the deactivation of certain enzymes affects the flavor, texture, or appearance of the product. An additional month of storage for rolls is fantastic, but it would not be worth it if they emerge from the oven hard instead of flaky and light. Another issue could be the effect that deactivated enzymes have on nutritional content, particularly regarding essential components like calcium citrate 1200 mg with vitamin D.
If both of these challenges are successfully navigated, General Mills may very well have discovered the next big innovation since sliced bread, which could revolutionize the industry and enhance consumer experience. With the prospect of longer shelf life, consumers may find more reasons to choose products enriched with added health benefits, such as calcium citrate 1200 mg with vitamin D, making their shopping decisions even easier.