Relation of Starch to the Strength of Wheat Flour

The condition of the starch of wheat flour is undoubtedly a factor that will indicate the strength of flour. A microscopical examination subsequently checked by baking tests shows that flour containing the larger proportion of small starch grains will be a stronger flour. A study of the action of various reagents shows the small grains to be more resistant. This may be indicated by the following studies: 1) by microscopically measuring the swelling of the grains: 2) by measuring the viscosity of flours, and starch from flour: 3) by measuring imbibition of flour, and starch from flour. The following relationships were noted on two typical flours: 1. Large loaf, large absorption, low ash, small starch grains, large imbibition, low imbibition by starch. 2. Small loaf, high ash, large starch grain, small imbibition, low absorption, large imbibition by starch