Filling

Filling refers to the substance used to fill baked goods, candies, or other food items. It can range from fruit purees and creams to chocolate or nut pastes. Fillings are often made by combining ingredients like sugar, fruit, dairy, or chocolate and cooking them to achieve the desired texture and flavor.

Fillings add flavor, moisture, and texture to a wide variety of foods. They are essential in products like pies, pastries, donuts, chocolates, and stuffed pasta. Manufacturers use fillings to enhance the taste and appeal of their products, often creating a contrast with the outer layer.

Fillings are not a single ingredient but a category of food components. Their health implications depend entirely on the specific ingredients used within the filling. For example, fillings high in sugar may contribute to increased calorie intake, while those with fruit may offer some fiber and vitamins. Regulatory bodies like the FDA evaluate the safety of individual ingredients used in fillings. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated many common filling ingredients.