Polymerization of mono-and disaccharides using low levels of mineral acids

This invention relates to the polymerization of glucose and other monosaccharides using mineral acids such as low levels of phosphoric acid to yield edible materials particularly suitable for food use. Various polysaccharides are prepared by reacting glucose or glucose-containing materials such as hydrolyzed starch with a polyol such as sorbitol in the presence of mineral acids such as phosphoric, hydrochloric and/or sulfuric acid. In one embodiment, polydextrose is prepared by reacting glucose or glucose-containing materials such as hydrolyzed starch with a polyol such as sorbitol in the presence of low levels, i.e., from about 0.001% to about 0.09%, more narrowly from about 0.01% to about 0.06%, phosphoric acid. In other embodiments, other mineral acids or mixtures thereof may be employed. In alternate embodiments, a combination of mineral and organic carboxylic acids such as citric acid are employed. Because of the low levels of catalyst used in certain preferred embodiments, minimal or no off-flavors and little color are formed during the course of the reaction.