Method and ingredient for increasing soluble fiber content to enhance bile acid binding, increase viscosity, and increase hypocholesterolemic properties

A cereal based ingredient for use in preparing a food intermediate having improved bile acid binding capacity and viscosity, comprising;

• a first material having an initial level of extractable soluble fiber;
• an alkali selected from a group of calcium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide;
• a hydrating agent;
• a neutralizing agent;
• said first material after addition of the alkali, hydrating agent and neutralizing agent creating a second material having a second level of extractable soluble fiber;
• and
• wherein said second level of extractable soluble fiber from said second material is at least 50% greater than said first level of extractable soluble fiber from said first material.

A method for increasing soluble fiber level and viscosity in cereal based materials for use in food intermediates, comprising the steps of;

• providing a source of material having an extractable soluble fiber source;
• adding alkali to said material to create a mixture;
• cooking said mixture in a chamber;
• pulling a vacuum in said chamber
• hydrating said mixture while in said vacuum;
• discharging said mixture from said chamber;
• mixing said mixture;
• neutralizing said mixture;
• drying said mixture;
• and
• grinding said mixture into a powder so as to be able to use said powder in a food intermediate.