Description
Continuous flow spherification is a chemical process that uses sodium alginate and calcium chloride to form uniform liquid spheres.
Technical
The process relies on the ionic cross‑linking of alginate chains by Ca²⁺ ions, forming egg‑box junctions that create a semi‑solid gel. By precisely controlling alginate concentration, calcium bath strength, flow rate, temperature, and pH, the gelation kinetics can be tuned to produce spheres of defined size, texture, and release properties at industrial scale.
Science
Primary Reaction
Alginate + Ca²⁺ → Calcium alginate gel (egg‑box cross‑linking)
Sensory Profile
Aroma ()
neutralsubtlefreshcleanslightly sweet
Origin & History
Civilization
French
Era
2003–2010