Liquid nutritional composition, method for producing the same, and method for inhibiting the formation of film-like aggregates in a liquid nutritional composition

Abstract

The present invention provides a containerized liquid nutritional composition that can inhibit the formation of film-like aggregates at the gas-liquid interface in the headspace inside the container during heat sterilization treatment, a method for producing the same, and a method for inhibiting the formation of film-like aggregates in the liquid nutritional composition. [Solution] A liquid nutritional composition in a container that has been heat sterilized, having an energy concentration of 0.8 to 1.2 kcal / 1 mL, a protein content (value excluding protein hydrolysates) of 3.56 g / 100 kcal or more, a lipid content of 2.6 g / 100 kcal or more, a calcium content of 87 mg / 100 kcal or more, a magnesium content of 40 mg / 100 kcal or more, and an inulin content of 1.0 g / 100 kcal or more, and wherein 50% to 100% by mass of the carbohydrates (excluding inulin) contained in the liquid nutritional composition are carbohydrates with a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 1,000 or more, a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 10,000 or more, and a DE value of 5 or more but less than 19, or a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 650 or more, a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 1,350 or more, and a DE value of 19 or more but less than 25.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a liquid nutritional composition, a method for producing the same, and a method for inhibiting the formation of film-like aggregates in a liquid nutritional composition. [Background technology]

[0002] Sufficient and appropriate nutritional intake is essential for maintaining the health of patients undergoing or after surgical procedures, as well as elderly people or people requiring care who have difficulty eating a normal diet. Nutritional management for these subjects is carried out by administering nutritional compositions designed to contain a balanced amount of nutrients such as proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.

[0003] Liquid fluid nutritional compositions are preferably heat sterilized, but heat sterilization can cause sediment, so nutritional compositions that suppress the formation of sediment have been developed (see Patent Documents 1 and 2).

[0004] Furthermore, when producing high-concentration liquid foods, there is a problem that deposits form on the container walls in the headspace inside packaging containers such as soft bags during retort sterilization, so methods have been developed to suppress the formation of such deposits (see Patent Documents 3 and 4). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 8-196236 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 11-332528 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-110937 [Patent Document 4] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-184071 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] When a containerized liquid nutritional composition is heat sterilized, a film-like aggregate is formed at the gas-liquid interface in the headspace inside the container. This can cause problems when the liquid nutritional composition is administered via tube feeding, such as clogging in the narrow diameter section of the tube (such as the roller clamp section used to adjust the rate of administration). If the tube becomes clogged, the administration rate of the nutritional composition may drop significantly from the start of administration or even stop, hindering proper nutritional intake.

[0007] However, conventional nutritional compositions such as those disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2 did not focus on inhibiting the formation of such membrane-like aggregates. Furthermore, the methods disclosed in Patent Documents 3 and 4 also focused on deposits that form on the container wall in the headspace, and did not focus on inhibiting the formation of membrane-like aggregates that form at the gas-liquid interface in the headspace. Therefore, the conventional techniques did not demonstrate that the formation of such membrane-like aggregates could be prevented, nor did they solve the problem of tube clogging during tube administration when membrane-like aggregates form.

[0008] The object of the present invention is to provide a containerized liquid nutritional composition that can suppress the formation of film-like aggregates at the gas-liquid interface in the headspace inside the container during heat sterilization treatment, a method for producing the same, and a method for suppressing the formation of film-like aggregates in a liquid nutritional composition. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the present invention provides the following liquid nutrient composition, its production method, and method for inhibiting the formation of film-like aggregates in a liquid nutrient composition. In this specification, the expression X (numerical value) to Y (numerical value) means at least X and at most Y, unless otherwise specified.

[0010] [1] A liquid nutritional composition in a container that has been heat sterilized, The energy concentration is 0.8 to 1.2 kcal / 1 mL. The protein content (value excluding protein hydrolysates) is 3.56 g / 100 kcal or more, the lipid content is 2.6 g / 100 kcal or more, the calcium content is 87 mg / 100 kcal or more, the magnesium content is 40 mg / 100 kcal or more, and the inulin content is 1.0 g / 100 kcal or more, A liquid nutritional composition, wherein 50% to 100% by mass of the carbohydrates (excluding inulin) contained in the liquid nutritional composition are carbohydrates having a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 1,000 or more, a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 10,000 or more, and a DE value of 5 or more but less than 19, or a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 650 or more, a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 1,350 or more, and a DE value of 19 or more but less than 25. [2] The liquid nutritional composition according to [1], wherein the protein hydrolysate content is 0.1 g / 100 kcal or less. [3] The liquid nutritional composition according to [1] or [2], wherein 75% to 100% by mass of the carbohydrates (excluding inulin) contained in the liquid nutritional composition are high molecular weight carbohydrates with a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 1,100 or more. [4] The liquid nutritional composition according to any one of [1] to [3] above, wherein the heat sterilization treatment is static pressure heat sterilization treatment. [5] The liquid nutritional composition according to any one of [1] to [4] above, wherein the headspace in the container is 10 mL or more. [6] The liquid nutritional composition according to any one of [1] to [5] above, wherein the gas in the headspace within the container is air or nitrogen gas. [7] The liquid nutritional composition according to any one of [1] to [6] above, wherein the content of film-like aggregates in the liquid nutritional composition is 0.9 mg or less per container. [8] The liquid nutritional composition according to any one of [1] to [7] above, wherein the carbohydrate comprises dextrin. [9] The liquid nutritional composition according to any one of [1] to [8] above, wherein the salt equivalent amount in the liquid nutritional composition is 333.3 mg / 100 kcal or less.

[10] The liquid nutritional composition according to any one of [1] to [9] above, wherein the calcium content is 166 mg / 100 kcal or less.

[11] The liquid nutritional composition according to any one of [1] to

[10] above, wherein the protein comprises milk protein and / or sodium caseinate.

[12] The liquid nutritional composition according to

[11] , wherein the milk protein is a concentrated milk protein.

[13] The liquid nutritional composition according to any one of [1] to

[12] above, wherein the liquid nutritional composition has a pH of 6.0 to 8.0.

[14] The liquid nutritional composition according to any one of [1] to

[13] above, wherein the container is a container made of a flexible packaging material.

[15] The liquid nutritional composition according to

[14] , wherein the soft packaging container is a container made of synthetic resin-processed aluminum foil.

[16] A liquid nutritional composition in a container that has been heat sterilized, The energy concentration is 0.8 to 1.2 kcal / 1 mL. The protein content (value excluding protein hydrolysates) is 3.56 g / 100 kcal or more, the lipid content is 2.6 g / 100 kcal or more, the calcium content is 87 mg / 100 kcal or more, the magnesium content is 40 mg / 100 kcal or more, and the inulin content is 1.0 g / 100 kcal or more, 50% to 100% by mass of carbohydrates (excluding inulin) contained in the liquid nutritional composition are high molecular weight carbohydrates having a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 1,000 or more, a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 10,000 or more, and a DE value of 5 or more and less than 19, or a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 650 or more, a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 1,350 or more, and a DE value of 19 or more and 25 or less, The protein hydrolysate content is 0.1g / 100kcal or less, 75% to 100% by mass of carbohydrates (excluding inulin) contained in the liquid nutritional composition are high-molecular-weight carbohydrates having a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 1100 or more, The heat sterilization treatment is a static pressure heat sterilization treatment, The headspace in the container is 10 mL or more, the gas in the headspace within the container is air or nitrogen gas; The content of film-like aggregates in the liquid nutritional composition is 0.9 mg or less per container; the high molecular weight carbohydrate comprises dextrin; The liquid nutritional composition has a salt equivalent content of 333.3 mg / 100 kcal or less, The calcium content is 166 mg / 100 kcal or less, The protein comprises a milk protein and / or sodium caseinate, and the milk protein is a concentrated milk protein; The liquid nutrient composition has a pH of 6.0 to 8.0, A liquid nutritional composition, wherein the container is a container made of a flexible packaging material, and the flexible packaging material container is a container made of a synthetic resin-processed aluminum foil.

[17] A method for producing the liquid nutrient composition according to any one of [1] to

[16] above, comprising the steps of filling the container with the liquid nutrient composition, sealing the container, and subjecting the container-packaged liquid nutrient composition to static pressure-heat sterilization.

[18] A liquid nutritional composition in a container that has been heat sterilized, The energy concentration is 0.8 to 1.2 kcal / 1 mL. The protein content (value excluding protein hydrolysates) is 3.56 g / 100 kcal or more, the lipid content is 2.6 g / 100 kcal or more, the calcium content is 87 mg / 100 kcal or more, the magnesium content is 40 mg / 100 kcal or more, and the inulin content is 1.0 g / 100 kcal or more, A method for inhibiting the formation of film-like aggregates in a liquid nutritional composition, wherein 50% to 100% by mass of the carbohydrates (excluding inulin) contained in the liquid nutritional composition are high molecular weight carbohydrates having a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 1,000 or more, a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 10,000 or more, and a DE value of 5 or more but less than 19, or a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 650 or more, a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 1,350 or more, and a DE value of 19 or more but less than 25, thereby inhibiting the formation of film-like aggregates at the gas-liquid interface in the headspace within the container. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a containerized liquid nutritional composition, a method for producing the same, and a method for inhibiting the formation of film-like aggregates in a liquid nutritional composition, which can inhibit the formation of film-like aggregates at the gas-liquid interface in the headspace inside the container during heat sterilization treatment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below, but the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments and can be implemented with appropriate modifications within the scope of the object of the present invention.

[0013] [Liquid nutritional composition] The liquid nutrient composition according to an embodiment of the present invention (hereinafter referred to as "the present embodiment") is a containerized liquid nutrient composition that has been heat sterilized, The energy concentration is 0.8 to 1.2 kcal / 1 mL. The protein content (value excluding protein hydrolysates) is 3.56 g / 100 kcal or more, the lipid content is 2.6 g / 100 kcal or more, the calcium content is 87 mg / 100 kcal or more, the magnesium content is 40 mg / 100 kcal or more, and the inulin content is 1.0 g / 100 kcal or more, The liquid nutritional composition comprises 50% to 100% by mass of carbohydrates (excluding inulin) contained in the liquid nutritional composition, which are carbohydrates having a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 1,000 or more, a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 10,000 or more, and a DE value of 5 or more but less than 19, or a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 650 or more, a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 1,350 or more, and a DE value of 19 or more but less than 25. The volume of the liquid nutritional composition per container is not particularly limited, but is preferably 200 to 400 ml, more preferably 250 to 350 ml, and even more preferably 290 to 310 ml.

[0014] The content (g / 100 kcal) of ingredients in the liquid nutritional composition according to this embodiment is a theoretical value calculated based on the blending amounts (charge amounts) used during manufacturing, and is generally used as the basis for calculating the nutritional content values ​​displayed on product packaging, etc. While this value usually matches or substantially matches the analytical value, there may be a ±10% error due to the manufacturing process, raw material characteristics (variation in ingredients due to natural ingredients), and analytical error. For example, "3.56 g / 100 kcal or more" also includes the analytical value "3.56 ± 0.356 g / 100 kcal or more."

[0015] (energy concentration) The liquid nutritional composition according to this embodiment has an energy concentration of 0.8 to 1.2 kcal / 1 mL, preferably 0.85 to 1.15 kcal / 1 mL, more preferably 0.9 to 1.1 kcal / 1 mL, and even more preferably 0.95 to 1.05 kcal / 1 mL.

[0016] (protein content) The liquid nutritional composition according to this embodiment has a protein content (value excluding protein hydrolysates) of 3.56 g / 100 kcal or more, preferably 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, or 3.9 g / 100 kcal or more, more preferably 4.0 g / 100 kcal or more, and even more preferably 4.1, 4.2, 4.275, or 4.3 g / 100 kcal or more.

[0017] The upper limit of the protein content (value excluding protein hydrolysates) is not limited, but is preferably 5.0 g / 100 kcal or less, more preferably 4.9 g / 100 kcal or less, and even more preferably 4.8, 4.725, or 4.7 g / 100 kcal or less.

[0018] Examples of proteins that can be used include milk proteins, whole milk proteins, milk-derived proteins such as sodium caseinate (sodium caseinate), soybean proteins, egg proteins, gelatin, yeast-derived proteins, and plant-derived proteins (pea, rice, wheat, etc.). Of these, it is preferable to use milk proteins and / or sodium caseinate. Milk proteins refer to proteins derived from cow's milk and primarily composed of whey and casein, and concentrated milk proteins (milk protein concentrates; MPCs) are a representative example and are preferably used. Examples of whole milk proteins include whole milk, whole milk concentrates, proteins derived from whole milk, skim milk, skim milk concentrates, lactose-removed skim milk powder, and total milk proteins. Examples of casein include acid casein (lactate casein, hydrochloride casein, sulfate casein, or a mixture thereof) separated from milk by conventional methods, and caseinates (sodium caseinate, calcium caseinate, etc.) which are processed from casein, with sodium caseinate (e.g., containing approximately 90 to 92% protein) being particularly preferred.

[0019] (Protein hydrolysate content) The liquid nutritional composition according to this embodiment preferably has a protein hydrolysate content of 0.1 g / 100 kcal or less, more preferably 0.05 g / 100 kcal or less, more preferably 0.03 g / 100 kcal or less, even more preferably 0.01, 0.005, 0.003 or 0.001 g / 100 kcal or less, and most preferably 0 g / 100 kcal.

[0020] (lipid content) The liquid nutritional composition according to this embodiment has a lipid content of 2.6 g / 100 kcal or more, preferably 2.65 g / 100 kcal or more, and more preferably 2.7 g / 100 kcal or more.

[0021] The upper limit of the lipid content is not limited, but is preferably 3.5 g / 100 kcal or less, more preferably 3.0 g / 100 kcal or less, and even more preferably 2.9 g / 100 kcal or less.

[0022] Examples of lipids that can be used include vegetable oils such as soybean oil, perilla oil, perilla oil, sunflower oil, safflower oil, algae oil, canola oil, palm oil, corn oil, coconut oil, olive oil, and rice oil; animal oils such as fish oil and beef tallow; medium-chain triglycerides (MCT); and highly unsaturated fatty acids such as eicosapentaenoic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, linolenic acid, and linoleic acid. One type of lipid may be used alone, or two or more types may be used in combination. From the viewpoint of ensuring the supply of essential fatty acids, it is preferable to use a combination of multiple types of lipids.

[0023] (Inulin content) The liquid nutritional composition according to this embodiment has an inulin content of 1.0 g / 100 kcal or more.

[0024] The upper limit of the inulin content is not limited, but is preferably 2.0 g / 100 kcal or less, more preferably 1.5 g / 100 kcal or less, and even more preferably 1.4, 1.3, 1.2, or 1.1 g / 100 kcal or less.

[0025] Examples of inulin that can be used include chicory-derived inulin, agave-derived inulin, dahlia-derived inulin, Jerusalem artichoke-derived inulin, and purified products or partially hydrolyzed products thereof (low molecular weight inulin, oligofructose). Inulin is extracted and purified from natural plant-derived products and is known as a water-soluble dietary fiber. The sugar chain length (degree of polymerization: DP) of the inulin used is preferably an average chain length of 10 to 30, more preferably an average chain length of 13 to 17, and even more preferably an average chain length of 14 to 16. Commercially available products can also be used.

[0026] (Calcium content) The liquid nutritional composition according to this embodiment has a calcium content of at least 87 mg / 100 kcal, preferably at least 87.2 mg / 100 kcal, and more preferably at least 87.4 mg / 100 kcal, including the total amount of calcium derived from other components (e.g., milk protein) in the liquid nutritional composition.

[0027] The upper limit of the calcium content is preferably 166 mg / 100 kcal or less, more preferably 150, 140, 130, 120, or 110 mg / 100 kcal or less, and even more preferably 105 mg / 100 kcal or less.

[0028] (Magnesium content) The liquid nutritional composition according to this embodiment has a magnesium content of 40 mg / 100 kcal or more, preferably 40.5 mg / 100 kcal or more, and more preferably 40.8 mg / 100 kcal or more. The magnesium content is the total amount including magnesium derived from other components (e.g., milk protein) in the liquid nutritional composition.

[0029] The upper limit of the magnesium content is not limited, but is preferably 50 mg / 100 kcal or less, more preferably 45 mg / 100 kcal or less, and even more preferably 44, 43, or 42 mg / 100 kcal or less.

[0030] (equivalent to salt) The sodium concentration is preferably set within the range of 1.5g, the estimated required amount converted to salt equivalent (Dietary Reference Intakes for Japanese (2025 Edition, Committee for the Development of Dietary Reference Intakes for Japanese)), and the target value for salt restriction in hypertension is less than 6g (Guidelines for the Management and Treatment of Hypertension (2025 Edition, Japanese Society of Hypertension)). The liquid nutritional composition of this embodiment preferably has a salt equivalent of 333.3mg / 100kcal or less.

[0031] The lower limit of the salt equivalent is preferably 166 mg / 100 kcal or more, and more preferably 250 mg / 100 kcal or more.

[0032] (vitamins and minerals) The liquid nutritional composition according to this embodiment preferably contains vitamins and minerals. Examples of vitamins and minerals include those listed in the Dietary Reference Intakes for Japanese (2025 edition). Examples of vitamins include vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin K, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, niacin, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, folic acid, pantothenic acid, biotin, and vitamin C. It is preferable to contain one or more of these vitamins, and more preferably to contain all of them. In addition to the aforementioned calcium and magnesium, examples of minerals include phosphorus, iron, zinc, copper, manganese, iodine, selenium, chromium, and molybdenum. In addition to calcium and magnesium, it is preferable to contain at least selenium, chromium, molybdenum, and iodine. It is more preferable to further contain one or more of phosphorus, iron, zinc, copper, and manganese, and even more preferable to contain all of them.

[0033] The appropriate amount of each component can be determined according to the Dietary Reference Intakes for Japanese people. For example, for adults aged 18 years or older, the recommended daily intake of each component is set as follows (Dietary Reference Intakes for Japanese people (2025 edition)). Vitamin A (retinol palmitate) 900-2700μgRE (retinol equivalent), vitamin D (cholecalciferol) 9.0-100μg, vitamin E (tocopherol acetate) 7.5-650mg (α-tocopherol equivalent), vitamin K 150μg or more, vitamin B1 (thiamine chloride hydrochloride) 1.2mg or more (thiamine equivalent 944μg or more), vitamin B2 (riboflavin) 1.7mg or more, niacin (nicotinamide) 16-250mg, vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) 1.5-40mg, vitamin B 12 (cyanocobalamin) 4.0μg or more, folic acid 240~900μg, pantothenic acid 6mg or more, biotin 50μg or more, vitamin C (ascorbic acid) 100mg or more, phosphorus 1000~3000mg, iron 10.5mg or more, zinc 9.5~35mg, manganese 3.5~11mg, copper 0.9~7mg, iodine 140~3000μg, selenium 35~350μg, chromium 10~500μg, molybdenum 30~500μg. Taking this into consideration, when vitamins and minerals are added to the liquid nutritional composition of this embodiment, it is preferable to add them in the amounts below per 900 kcal of composition, keeping in mind that 1500 kcal can be ingested per day. Vitamin A (retinol palmitate) 900-1350μgRE, vitamin D (cholecalciferol) 9.0-50μg, vitamin E (tocopherol acetate) 7.5-325mg, vitamin K 75μg or more, vitamin B1 (thiamine chloride hydrochloride) 1.2mg or more, vitamin B2 (riboflavin) 1.7mg or more, niacin (nicotinamide) 16-125mg, vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) 1.5-20mg, vitamin B 12 (cyanocobalamin) 4.0μg or more, folic acid 240~450μg, pantothenic acid 6mg or more, biotin 50μg or more, vitamin C (ascorbic acid) 100mg or more, phosphorus 1000~1500mg, iron 10.5mg or more, zinc 9.5~17.5mg, manganese 3.5~5.5mg, copper 0.9~3.5mg, iodine 140~1500μg, selenium 35~175μg, chromium 10~250μg, molybdenum 30~250μg.

[0034] In addition, because there is a possibility that blood potassium levels may tend to increase, it is preferable from a safety standpoint to keep the intake lower than the dietary reference intake (JJPEN. Vol. 19 No. 6, 1997, p. 567-633). Phytonadione (vitamin K 1 ) should be lower than the dietary reference intake (for example, 75 μg per 900 kcal) to prevent medical accidents due to interactions with warfarin. For the same reason, it is preferable to incorporate other vitamin Ks at levels lower than the dietary reference intake of 150 μg.

[0035] (carbohydrates) The liquid nutritional composition according to this embodiment contains carbohydrates (excluding inulin). Carbohydrates other than inulin are not limited to, but include, for example, monosaccharides (e.g., glucose, fructose, etc.), disaccharides (e.g., sucrose, lactose, maltose), sugar alcohols (e.g., sorbitol, maltitol), oligosaccharides (e.g., fructooligosaccharides, galactooligosaccharides), dextrins (e.g., maltodextrin, candy powder, acid-resistant dextrin), starch and its modified forms (e.g., acid-modified starch, gelatinized starch), and water-soluble polysaccharides (e.g., guar gum hydrolyzate, resistant dextrin). One type of carbohydrate may be used alone, or two or more types may be used in combination. Dextrin is preferred.

[0036] The carbohydrate (excluding inulin) content in the liquid nutritional composition of this embodiment is determined by the amounts of protein and lipid, and although the amounts may vary as appropriate, it is preferably 50% to 65% in terms of energy ratio. The energy ratio is calculated assuming that the energy of carbohydrates is 4 kcal / g. Meanwhile, the energy of the aforementioned inulin is calculated as 2 kcal / g.

[0037] Of the carbohydrates (excluding inulin) contained in the liquid nutritional composition of this embodiment, 50% to 100% by mass is carbohydrate A having a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 1,000 or more, a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 10,000 or more, and a DE value of 5 to less than 19, or carbohydrate B having a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 650 or more, a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 1,350 or more, and a DE value of 19 to 25, but carbohydrate A is preferred. One type of carbohydrate A may be used alone, or two or more types may be used in combination. One type of carbohydrate B may be used alone, or two or more types may be used in combination. Furthermore, carbohydrate A and carbohydrate B may be used in combination.

[0038] Preferably, 55, 60, 65, or 70% to 100% by mass of the carbohydrates (excluding inulin) are the carbohydrate A and / or carbohydrate B, and more preferably, 75, 80, 85, or 90% to 100% by mass of the carbohydrates are the carbohydrate A and / or carbohydrate B. It is even more preferable that the carbohydrates (excluding inulin) contained in the above ranges are the carbohydrate A.

[0039] Carbohydrate A preferably has a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 1,050 or more, a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 10,050 or more, and a DE value of 6 or more but less than 18, and more preferably has a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 1,100 or more, a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 10,100 or more, and a DE value of 7 or more but less than 17. There is no upper limit to the number average molecular weight (Mn), but it is preferably 10,000 or less, more preferably 6,500 or less. There is also no upper limit to the weight average molecular weight (Mw), but it is preferably 100,000 or less, more preferably 50,000 or less.

[0040] Carbohydrate B preferably has a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 650 or more and 1000 or less, a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 1350 or more and 3000 or less, and a DE value of 19 or more and 25 or less, and more preferably has a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 650 or more and 900 or less, a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 1350 or more and 2200 or less, and a DE value of 19 or more and 25 or less.

[0041] The above preferred values ​​can be combined as appropriate. For example, it is preferred that 75% to 100% by mass of the carbohydrates (excluding inulin) contained in the liquid nutritional composition of this embodiment are high molecular weight carbohydrates with a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 1,100 or more.

[0042] (pH) The liquid nutrient composition according to this embodiment preferably has a pH of 6.0 to 8.0, more preferably 6.1 to 7.5, even more preferably 6.2 to 7.0, and most preferably 6.2 to 6.8.

[0043] (viscosity) The viscosity of the liquid nutritional composition according to this embodiment is preferably 4.0 to 10.0 mPa·s, more preferably 4.1 to 9.8 mPa·s, even more preferably 4.2 to 9.6 mPa·s, and most preferably 4.3 to 9.4 mPa·s. The viscosity is measured according to the method specified in the Japanese Pharmacopoeia, 18th Edition, General Tests <2.53> Viscosity Measurement Method.

[0044] (Film-like aggregate content) In the liquid nutrient composition according to this embodiment, the content of film-like aggregates in the liquid nutrient composition is preferably 1.0 mg or less per container, more preferably 0.95 mg or less, and even more preferably 0.9 mg or less. Here, "in the liquid nutrient composition" includes not only film-like aggregates that float or settle in the composition, but also film-like aggregates that float on the surface of the composition. The film-like aggregates in this embodiment refer to film-like aggregates that are generated at the gas-liquid interface in the headspace of the container (the interface between the gas in the headspace and the upper surface of the liquid nutrient composition) when the container-packed liquid nutrient composition according to this embodiment is subjected to heat sterilization, and the content is measured by collecting the aggregates on filter paper or the like, drying them, and measuring the weight difference between before and after collection. Note that deposits that occur on the inner wall of the container in the headspace do not fall under the category of film-like aggregates.

[0045] (heat sterilization treatment) The liquid nutrient composition according to this embodiment is a containerized liquid nutrient composition that has been subjected to heat sterilization. While the heat sterilization method is not limited, it is preferable to subject the liquid nutrient composition to static pressure and heat sterilization after filling and sealing the container. Static pressure and heat sterilization refers to a batch sterilization method in which the contents are filled into a container, the container is transported by a belt conveyor, etc., and finally loaded into a static heating oven (e.g., a retort oven), and then pressurized and heated in a sealed environment. Heat sterilization is performed in a static state without moving the container. Unlike rocking or continuous flow heat sterilization, static pressure and heat sterilization is a low-cost heat treatment method; however, since the container is not moved during heating, film-like aggregates are likely to be formed. The liquid nutrient composition according to this embodiment is expected to have an inhibitory effect on film-like aggregate formation, and therefore, even when static heat sterilization, which is prone to film-like aggregate formation, is employed, a packaged liquid nutrient composition with a low film-like aggregate content can be obtained. Furthermore, the liquid nutritional composition according to this embodiment is expected to have the effect of suppressing clogging caused by membranous aggregates during tube administration.

[0046] (container) The container for containing the liquid nutrient composition according to this embodiment is not particularly limited, but examples include pouches, bottles, cans, cartons, etc., and is preferably a container made of a flexible packaging material that has excellent barrier properties, processability, and storage stability. A preferred flexible packaging container is a container made of synthetic resin-processed aluminum foil. Flexible packaging is a multilayer film material for packaging that is flexible and can be bent or deformed, and is used to form pouches, etc. Synthetic resin-processed aluminum foil refers to a high-performance packaging material that combines light-blocking properties, heat resistance, and sealability by laminating or coating aluminum foil with synthetic resins such as polyester, polyethylene, and polypropylene. Examples of laminated configurations include PET / aluminum foil / PE and nylon / aluminum foil / PP.

[0047] The container containing the liquid nutritional composition according to this embodiment may have a headspace of 10 mL or more. From the perspective of quality control during storage, it is desirable to minimize the headspace in the container, but a special filling and packaging machine capable of adjusting the headspace amount is required. Using a general filling and packaging machine results in a headspace of 10 mL or more. The liquid nutritional composition according to this embodiment is expected to have an effect of inhibiting the formation of filmy aggregates, so that a containerized liquid nutritional composition with a low filmy aggregate content can be obtained even with a headspace of 10 mL or more, which is an environment in which filmy aggregates are likely to be formed. Furthermore, the liquid nutritional composition according to this embodiment is expected to have an effect of inhibiting clogging caused by filmy aggregates during tube administration.

[0048] The gas in the headspace of the container is preferably air or nitrogen gas, and the air in the headspace is preferably replaced with nitrogen gas immediately before sealing the container.

[0049] [Method for producing liquid nutritional composition] The method for producing a liquid nutrient composition according to this embodiment is a method for producing a liquid nutrient composition in a container, which comprises the steps of filling the container with the liquid nutrient composition, sealing the container, and subjecting the container-packaged liquid nutrient composition to static pressure and heat sterilization.

[0050] Specifically, for example, a container can be filled with the liquid nutritional composition obtained by blending the aforementioned components, or the aforementioned components can be placed in a container and mixed to form a liquid nutritional composition, and the container can be sealed in a conventional manner, followed by subjecting the container-packed liquid nutritional composition to static pressure-heat sterilization, thereby producing a container-packed liquid nutritional composition. The components of the liquid nutritional composition, the container, and the static pressure-heat sterilization process are as described above, and therefore further explanation is omitted here.

[0051] [Method for inhibiting the formation of film-like aggregates in a liquid nutritional composition] The method for inhibiting the formation of film-like aggregates in a liquid nutrient composition according to this embodiment comprises the steps of: The method for inhibiting the formation of film-like aggregates in a liquid nutritional composition comprises setting the energy concentration to 0.8 to 1.2 kcal / 1 mL, the protein content (value excluding protein hydrolysates) to 3.56 g / 100 kcal or more, the lipid content to 2.6 g / 100 kcal or more, the calcium content to 87 mg / 100 kcal or more, the magnesium content to 40 mg / 100 kcal or more, and the inulin content to 1.0 g / 100 kcal or more, and 50% to 100% by mass of the carbohydrates (excluding inulin) contained in the liquid nutritional composition to be high molecular weight carbohydrates having a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 1,000 or more, a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 10,000 or more, and a DE value of 5 or more but less than 19, or a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 650 or more, a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 1,350 or more, and a DE value of 19 or more but less than 25, thereby inhibiting the formation of film-like aggregates at the gas-liquid interface in the headspace within the container. The terms and their preferred embodiments have been described above, and therefore further explanation will be omitted.

[0052] The present invention will now be described with reference to examples, but the present invention is not limited to these examples. [Example]

[0053] [Production of containerized liquid nutritional composition] Containerized liquid nutritional compositions were produced according to the following procedures (Examples 1 to 7, Comparative Examples 1 to 5). Three lots of each of Example 1 and Comparative Example 1 were produced. (1) Each of the raw materials shown in Tables 1 and 2 was weighed out in the amounts (per 100 kcal) shown in Tables 1 and 2. (2) The weighed ingredients were added to warm water and stirred, and then homogenized with a homogenizer to obtain a liquid nutritional composition. (3) 300 ml of the prepared liquid nutrient composition was filled into a container (a container made of synthetic resin-coated aluminum foil, manufactured by Toyo Seikan Co., Ltd.) and sealed using a heat sealer (pressure sealing with a hot plate). (4) The liquid nutritional composition in the sealed container was subjected to static pressure and heat sterilization under conditions of F0>4 so as to satisfy commercial sterility.

[0054] [Evaluation of film-like aggregates] The content of film-like aggregates formed at the gas-liquid interface in the headspace of the heat-sterilized container-packed liquid nutritional composition was measured using the method described below. The results are shown in Tables 1 and 2. (1) After heat sterilization of 300 ml of container-packed liquid nutritional composition, the composition was stored at room temperature for 1 to 10 days, then opened, and film-like aggregates were collected on a test sieve (45 μm mesh, manufactured by Tokyo Screen Co., Ltd.). The presence of aggregates on the inner wall of the container (the inner wall of the portion facing upward during retort heating) was confirmed by visual inspection. The aggregates remained attached even after shaking the container-packed liquid nutritional composition up and down three times before opening (simulating an actual usage scenario). Furthermore, when the composition was not heat sterilized or when heat sterilization was performed without a headspace and quantified using this method, the amount of film-like aggregates was 0 mg (quantitative error: 0.2 mg). Therefore, the collected aggregates were determined to be film-like aggregates generated at the gas-liquid interface in the headspace during heat sterilization. No increase or decrease in film-like aggregates was observed depending on the storage period (number of days of storage). (2) The collected film-like aggregate was dried in a thermostatic oven and then collected on a milk sediment disk (manufactured by Toyo Roshi Kaisha), the weight of which was measured. (3) The milk sediment disk from which the film-like aggregates had been collected was again dried in a thermostatic oven. (4) The content of film-like flocs was calculated from the difference in weight of the milk sediment disc before and after collecting the film-like flocs.

[0055] [Table 1]

[0056] [Table 2]

[0057] In the packaged liquid nutritional compositions of Examples 1 to 7, the content of membrane-like aggregates was 0.9 mg or less per container, and the effect of inhibiting their formation was high.

Claims

1. A liquid nutritional composition in a container that has been heat sterilized, The energy concentration is 0.8 to 1.2 kcal / 1 mL, The protein content (value excluding protein hydrolysates) is 3.56 g / 100 kcal or more, The lipid content is 2.6 g / 100 kcal or more, The calcium content is 87 mg / 100 kcal or more, The magnesium content is 40 mg / 100 kcal or more, The inulin content is 1.0 g / 100 kcal or more, 50% to 100% by mass of carbohydrates (excluding inulin) contained in the liquid nutritional composition are carbohydrates having a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 1,000 or more, a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 10,000 or more, and a DE value of 5 or more and less than 19, or a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 650 or more, a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 1,350 or more, and a DE value of 19 or more and 25 or less, the protein comprises milk protein and / or sodium caseinate; A liquid nutritional composition, wherein the content of film-like aggregates in the liquid nutritional composition is 0.9 mg or less per container.

2. 2. The liquid nutritional composition according to claim 1, wherein the content of protein hydrolysates is 0.1 g / 100 kcal or less.

3. 2. The liquid nutritional composition according to claim 1, wherein 75% to 100% by mass of the carbohydrates (excluding inulin) contained in the liquid nutritional composition are high molecular weight carbohydrates with a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 1,100 or more.

4. The liquid nutritional composition according to claim 1 , wherein the heat sterilization treatment is static pressure heat sterilization treatment.

5. 2. The liquid nutritional composition according to claim 1, wherein the headspace in the container is 10 mL or more.

6. 2. The liquid nutritional composition of claim 1, wherein the gas in the headspace within the container consists of air or nitrogen gas.

7. 10. The liquid nutritional composition of claim 1, wherein the carbohydrate comprises a dextrin.

8. 2. The liquid nutritional composition according to claim 1, wherein the salt equivalent content in the liquid nutritional composition is 333.3 mg / 100 kcal or less.

9. 2. The liquid nutritional composition of claim 1, wherein the calcium content is 166 mg / 100 kcal or less.

10. 10. The liquid nutritional composition of claim 1, wherein the milk protein is a concentrated milk protein.

11. 2. The liquid nutritional composition according to claim 1, wherein the pH of the liquid nutritional composition is 6.0 to 8.

0.

12. The liquid nutritional composition according to claim 1 , wherein the container is a flexible packaging container.

13. The liquid nutritional composition according to claim 12, wherein the soft packaging container is a container made of synthetic resin-processed aluminum foil.

14. A liquid nutritional composition in a container that has been heat sterilized, The energy concentration is 0.8 to 1.2 kcal / 1 mL, The protein content (value excluding protein hydrolysates) is 3.56 g / 100 kcal or more, The lipid content is 2.6 g / 100 kcal or more, The calcium content is 87 mg / 100 kcal or more, The magnesium content is 40 mg / 100 kcal or more, The inulin content is 1.0 g / 100 kcal or more, 50% to 100% by mass of carbohydrates (excluding inulin) contained in the liquid nutritional composition are high molecular weight carbohydrates having a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 1,000 or more, a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 10,000 or more, and a DE value of 5 or more but less than 19, or a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 650 or more, a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 1,350 or more, and a DE value of 19 or more but less than 25, The content of protein degradation products is 0.1 g / 100 kcal or less, 75% to 100% by mass of carbohydrates (excluding inulin) contained in the liquid nutritional composition are high molecular weight carbohydrates having a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 1,100 or more, The heat sterilization treatment is a static pressure heat sterilization treatment, The headspace in the container is 10 mL or more, the gas in the headspace within the container is air or nitrogen gas; The content of film-like aggregates in the liquid nutritional composition is 0.9 mg or less per container; the high molecular weight carbohydrate comprises dextrin; The salt equivalent amount in the liquid nutritional composition is 333.3 mg / 100 kcal or less, The calcium content is 166 mg / 100 kcal or less, the protein comprises milk protein and / or sodium caseinate; the milk protein is a concentrated milk protein; The liquid nutritional composition has a pH of 6.0 to 8.0, The container is a container made of a flexible packaging material, A liquid nutritional composition, wherein the soft packaging container is a container made of synthetic resin-processed aluminum foil.

15. A method for producing the liquid nutritional composition according to any one of claims 1 to 14, comprising: A method for producing a containerized liquid nutritional composition, comprising the steps of filling the container with the liquid nutritional composition, sealing the container, and subjecting the containerized liquid nutritional composition to static pressure and heat sterilization.

16. A liquid nutritional composition in a container that has been heat sterilized, The energy concentration is 0.8 to 1.2 kcal / 1 mL. The content of protein containing milk protein and / or sodium caseinate (value excluding protein hydrolysates) is 3.56 g / 100 kcal or more, The lipid content is 2.6 g / 100 kcal or more, The calcium content is 87 mg / 100 kcal or more, The magnesium content is 40 mg / 100 kcal or more, The inulin content is 1.0 g / 100 kcal or more, A method for inhibiting the formation of film-like aggregates in a liquid nutritional composition, wherein 50% to 100% by mass of the carbohydrates (excluding inulin) contained in the liquid nutritional composition are high molecular weight carbohydrates having a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 1,000 or more, a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 10,000 or more, and a DE value of 5 or more but less than 19, or a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 650 or more, a weight average molecular weight (Mw) of 1,350 or more, and a DE value of 19 or more but less than 25, thereby inhibiting the formation of film-like aggregates at the gas-liquid interface in the headspace within the container.

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