TRACELIGHT™ – A new take on pretzel lye
Food-grade sodium hydroxide solution E 524
Pretzel lye is an aqueous sodium hydroxide solution used to treat the surface of lye-baked goods prior to baking. The strongly alkaline pH value significantly accelerates the Maillard reaction on the surface of the dough. This results in the typical brown colouring, the development of characteristic roasted flavours, and a smooth, firm crust structure. The lye acts exclusively on the surface and reacts completely during baking.
Due to its high purity and defined specifications, the sodium hydroxide solution used is also suitable for applications with higher quality requirements, such as the production of frozen baked goods.
With TRACELIGHT™ from DOW, CVH combines the tried-and-tested pretzel lye with the modern requirements of the food industry.
Approvals & Certifications
- Authorised food additive E524 in accordance with EU Regulations (EC) No 1333/2008 and No 231/2012
- Compliance with the requirements of Article 18 of Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004 regarding traceability
- Production, storage, filling and transport in accordance with FSSC 22000 (including HACCP)
- Halal and Kosher certification
- Drinking water compliance: EN 896:2012
- Low chlorate level: < 4 ppm
Preparation of the pretzel lye (working solution)
Before use, the 36% sodium hydroxide solution is diluted with water to a working concentration of no more than 4%.
To do this, first add the calculated amount of water to the mixing vessel, then add the sodium hydroxide solution whilst stirring continuously.
Suitable stirring equipment must be used; aluminium vessels or tools must not be used.
Storage
When storing sodium hydroxide, a minimum temperature dependent on the concentration must be maintained, as the solution tends to crystallise at lower temperatures. The solidification temperatures are given in the relevant table.
Crystallised sodium hydroxide can only be completely redissolved with considerable effort. In unheated tanks or storage facilities, it is therefore advisable to store diluted sodium hydroxide during the colder months.
During prolonged storage, a white layer of sodium carbonate may form on the surface of the liquid and at the outlet of the tank; this is a reaction product of sodium hydroxide with carbon dioxide from the air.
Material compatibility
Suitable materials:
Sodium hydroxide is resistant to steel and the plastics PVC and PE.
Unsuitable materials:
Conductive metals such as aluminium, non-ferrous metals such as brass and copper, as well as tin, zinc and lead, are not resistant.
Concentrated alkalis also attack glass and enamel surfaces.
Upon contact with ammonium salts, sodium hydroxide may release gaseous ammonia.
