Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1995-2000
Title: **Innovator Spotlight: Helen D. Coontz**
Introduction
Helen D. Coontz, an accomplished inventor based in Decatur, Illinois, is known for her significant contributions to the food industry. With a total of two patents to her name, Helen has focused on creating healthier food formulations that appeal to modern dietary preferences.
Latest Patents
Helen's latest patents revolve around a method of preparing reduced-fat foods. Her innovation involves a food formulation that incorporates a fragmented, amylopectin starch hydrolysate, which acts as a substitute for a substantial portion of the fat and/or oil typically used in food products. This unique formulation enables the creation of various products, including margarine, salad dressings—both pourable and spoonable—frostings, and frozen novelties. The starch hydrolysate forms an aqueous dispersion at approximately 20% hydrolysate solids, demonstrating a yield stress ranging from about 100 to 1,500 pascals, thereby providing a versatile solution for reduced-fat food manufacturing.
Career Highlights
Helen D. Coontz is associated with the A.E. Staley Manufacturing Company, where she has applied her expertise to advance food technology and innovation. Her work has been instrumental in addressing consumer demand for healthier options without compromising on taste or texture.
Collaborations
Throughout her career, Helen has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Ruth G. Chiou and Cheryl C. Brown. These professional partnerships have facilitated a shared pursuit of developing groundbreaking solutions within the realm of food formulation, contributing to the shared success of various innovative projects.
Conclusion
Helen D. Coontz’s contributions to the field of food innovation demonstrate her commitment to enhancing consumer health through inventive solutions. Her patents not only reflect her ingenuity but also signify a broader movement towards healthier eating options in our daily lives. As she continues her work at A.E. Staley Manufacturing Company, Helen remains a key figure in food technology, inspiring future generations of inventors.