Has Your Compound Coating Bloomed?
Fat bloom is a visible film on the surface of your compound coating wafers or finished pieces, ranging from a dull white to a severe white discoloration. While fat bloom has a negative effect on appearance, the product remains perfectly safe to eat. When fully melted, the surface fat will be reincorporated and the compound is good as new.
If confections or moulded pieces have bloomed soon after you make them, be sure you are following the proper handling instructions. Compound coatings are very forgiving, but unfortunately they are not bloom proof. Be sure you are using the proper melting temperatures, usage temperatures, and cooling temperatures for your specific compound coating:
Melting & Usage Temperatures – These will vary based on the fat system used in the recipe, so refer to the instructions for your specific coating. Usage temperature that is too hot or too cold may result in bloom or lack of gloss.
Cooling Temperatures – Compound coating solidifies best in a cold 45-55°F environment with plenty of air movement. Often improper cooling is the issue that can result in bloom. The thicker your layer of compound coating, the more cooling will be required.
Has Your Compound Thickened Over Time?
Our compound coating wafers should be fluid and free flowing when melted to 110 – 115°F. Over time, especially after six months, compound coating wafers can absorb moisture from the atmosphere. This moisture makes the coating thicker, which may affect its flowability in your application.
To thin out your compound coating wafers, you can add a small amount of additional Palm Kernel Oil (PKO):
- It is easiest to melt the PKO before adding to your coating. Melt PKO to approximately 120°F.
NOTE: A convenient product to use for this is Paramount Crystals, which are PKO flakes with added lecithin. - Heat your confectionery coating wafers to 110-115°F. We recommend gently heating in a microwave oven, using a thermometer to check the temperature.
NOTE: If it has absorbed moisture, more heating will not make it thinner-do not exceed 120°F or you may permanently damage the coating. - Add ¼ ounce (7 grams) of melted PKO for each 1 pound (16 ounces) of melted coating wafers. Mix vigorously to incorporate the added PKO.
- If still too thick, add another ¼ ounce (7 grams) of melted PKO in the same manner. If adding the Paramount Crystal flakes, you can add these in flake (solid) form and use the heat from the melted coating wafers to melt the flakes. This may take some extra time and vigorous mixing to melt the flakes.
Storage
Proper storage is a crucial aspect to maintain the integrity and shelf life of compound coatings. To slow moisture absorption into your compound, store compound coating wafers in a sealed bag, in an environment with less than 50% relative humidity, and only up to 65°F. Ensure the area is well-ventilated and free from strong odors.