Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1976-1984
Title: The Innovations of Milton L. Cook
Introduction
Milton L. Cook is an accomplished inventor based in Algonquin, Illinois. He has made significant contributions to the food industry through his innovative patents. With a total of two patents to his name, Cook has focused on creating products that enhance food stability and texture.
Latest Patents
One of Cook's latest patents is for a food bar that is shelf-stable and has an intermediate moisture content. This food bar features a soft and chewy texture while maintaining good taste. The innovation lies in the lowered sugar content, which is achieved through a combination of at least two polyhydric alcohols. One of these alcohols is a sugar alcohol, while the other is either glycerol or propylene glycol. In preferred embodiments, glycerol and sorbitol are used in a ratio ranging from 1:1 to 5:1. Despite the low total sugar content, the water activity is maintained in the 0.2-0.55 range, ensuring a soft texture.
Another notable patent involves a process for stabilizing fruit pieces. This process includes preparing a liquid shortening by heating it above its melting point and then heating the fruit pieces. The fruit pieces are then coated with the shortening, which stabilizes them, and the coated pieces are cooled. This innovative approach enhances the shelf life and quality of hydrophilic food products.
Career Highlights
Milton L. Cook is associated with The Quaker Oats Company, where he has applied his expertise in food technology. His work has contributed to the development of new food products that meet consumer demands for quality and taste.
Collaborations
Cook has collaborated with notable coworkers such as William L. Keyser and Paul W. Swanson. Their combined efforts have led to advancements in food product innovations.
Conclusion
Milton L. Cook's contributions to the food industry through his patents demonstrate his commitment to innovation and quality. His work continues to influence the development of food products that are both appealing and stable.