Vital wheat gluten is a protein substance derived from wheat.

Raw materials used in production. 

• Vital wheat gluten is derived from wheat flour, which in turn is obtained from the milling of wheat grains.

Step-by-step summary of industrial production process.

• Selection and Cleaning of Wheat. Wheat is selected and cleaned to remove impurities and debris.
• Milling. The cleaned wheat is then milled to produce flour.
• Washing and Hydrolyzing. The flour is washed with water to separate gluten from sugars and starch, a process known as hydrolyzing.
• Separation of Gluten. The gluten is then separated from the liquid.
• Drying. The wet gluten is dried to remove excess water, yielding dry vital wheat gluten.
• Pulverizing. The dry gluten is then turned into powder.

Form and color. 

Vital wheat gluten typically comes as a fine powder, ranging in color from white to beige.

Commercial applications. 

It is used in baking and other baked goods to enhance the elasticity and strength of doughs, and is also used to make seitan, a plant-based meat substitute.

Food Industry. Vital wheat gluten is utilized to enhance the texture and elasticity of pizzas, bread, and other baked goods. It is also a key ingredient in seitan, a vegetarian meat substitute.

Vegan and Vegetarian Products. Being a protein source, wheat gluten is widely used in the production of meat alternatives, like seitan.

Dietary Supplements. It can be used in protein powders and other dietary supplements to boost protein content.

Beverage Industry. It is also utilized in the production of some protein drinks and shakes.