If you work in the food industry, you know that garlic is a key ingredient in many products, from sauces and sausages to ready meals and condiments. However, not all garlic formats are the same, and choosing the right one can make a difference in terms of flavor, texture, conservation, and production efficiency.
Each format—whether powder, flakes, granules, paste, or extract—has its own advantages and applications. Some are ideal for recipes that need a powerful, uniform flavor, while others work better in preparations where texture is a key factor. In addition, logistics and storage also influence the decision.
In this article, we will help you understand the differences between the main garlic formats and what factors you should consider to choose the one that best suits your production process. If you are looking to optimize costs, improve product quality and ensure a stable supply, this guide will be useful to you.
Key factors for choosing the right format
Choosing the correct garlic format in the food industry directly influences flavor, process efficiency, conservation and operating costs. Before deciding what type of garlic to use, it is important to analyze several key aspects that affect its suitability in each product.
Type of final product and its formulation
Each industrial application requires a specific garlic format. In sauces and dressings, garlic powder or liquid extract ensures even distribution of flavor. For sausages, prepared dishes and meat products, flaked or granulated garlic provides texture and visual presence, improving the perception of the final product.
Flavor intensity and required aromatic profile
- Garlic powder and liquid extract offer a concentrated and homogeneous flavor.
- Flaked and granulated garlic provide a progressive aroma as it rehydrates during cooking.
- Garlic paste and peeled garlic cloves are easily integrated into production processes where a fresher, more natural profile is required.
Production processes and compatibility with ingredients
Garlic must be efficiently integrated into the production line. For example:
- Powdered and granulated garlic are easily mixed into dry formulations or industrial seasonings.
- Garlic paste and liquid extract are well suited to automated processes in the production of sauces and meat products.
- Flaked garlic works in preparations that require progressive hydration, such as broths and soups.
Each industry must evaluate how garlic interacts with other ingredients and the thermal processes involved.
Shelf life and storage needs
- Garlic powder and granules have a long shelf life and easy storage in dry conditions.
- Garlic flakes and garlic paste require appropriate packaging to preserve their properties.
- Peeled garlic cloves need refrigeration or freezing to maintain their freshness.
Comparison of available garlic formats
Each format of garlic has specific characteristics that make it more suitable for certain uses in the food industry. Below, we discuss the advantages, applications, and considerations of each.
Garlic powder
Features and benefits
- Fine and homogeneous texture, ideal for dry mixes.
- Concentrated flavor and easy dosage.
- Long life and easy storage.
Uses in the food industry
- Industrial condiments and seasonings.
- Sauces and dressings that require homogeneous integration.
- Processed products that need a uniform flavor without altering the texture.
Garlic flakes
Features and benefits
- Presentation in thin sheets with a controlled dehydration process.
- Mild flavor that intensifies when rehydrated.
- Good conservation and ease of handling.
Uses in the food industry
- Instant broths and soups.
- Spice mixtures for meat products.
- Prepared dishes and dehydrated foods.
Granulated garlic
Features and benefits
- Intermediate size between garlic powder and garlic flakes.
- Progressive flavor that is released during cooking.
- Easy dosage and storage.
Uses in the food industry
- Mixtures of spices and seasonings for meats and sausages.
- Preparation of sauces and marinades.
- Garlic flavored snacks and bakery products.
Garlic paste
Features and benefits
- Wet and ready-to-use texture.
- Fresh and natural flavor without the need for additional processing.
- Allows direct integration into automated production processes.
Uses in the food industry
- Sauces and dressings with creamy texture.
- Marinades and fresh meat products.
- Prepared dishes that require uniform integration of garlic.
Peeled garlic cloves
Features and benefits
- Fresh product without the need for manual peeling.
- More natural and intense flavor compared to dehydrated formats.
- Requires refrigeration for preservation.
Uses in the food industry
- Restoration and industrial kitchen.
- Production of pickles and preserves.
- Dishes prepared with fresh ingredients.
Garlic extract
Features and benefits
- High concentration of flavor in liquid format.
- Easy incorporation into industrial processes.
- Allows precise control of dosage.
Uses in the food industry
- Production of sauces and emulsions.
- Processed meat products industry.
- Food supplements and nutritional supplements.
Black garlic
Features and benefits
- Sweet and umami flavor with less spiciness.
- Ripening process that modifies its texture and properties.
- High demand in the gourmet market.
Uses in the food industry
- Premium prepared dishes and gourmet gastronomy.
- Snack industry and innovative products.
- Nutritional supplements and functional foods.
How to optimize the use of garlic in industrial production
Garlic is a key ingredient in many sectors of the food industry, but its correct integration into production processes is essential to ensure consistent flavor, optimal operational efficiency and a quality final product. Below, we explain some strategies to maximize its use in the industry.
Dosage and flavor control
The intensity of the garlic may vary depending on the format used. To achieve a proper balance in flavor profile:
- Standardize the proportions: Use precise measurements depending on the type of garlic used (powder, flakes, granules, paste, extract or fresh cloves).
- Perform prior tests: Adjust the amount according to the absorption and release of flavor at each stage of the process.
- Avoid overload: Too much garlic can alter the balance of the final product, especially in sauces and dressings.
Integration into production lines and automated processes
Each garlic format has an optimal way of integration in production:
- Garlic powder and granules: They mix easily into dry formulations without affecting the texture of the final product.
- Garlic paste and liquid extract: They work best in automated production systems where a homogeneous dispersion of the ingredient is required.
- Peeled garlic cloves: They are ideal for processes that require fresh ingredients with minimal handling.
Storage and preservation optimization
To reduce waste and guarantee the quality of garlic during industrial use:
- Keep dehydrated garlic in dry, well-ventilated places. to avoid moisture absorption.
- Refrigerate the garlic paste and peeled garlic cloves to preserve its freshness and prevent deterioration.
- Use airtight containers in extracts and liquid formats to maintain their flavor concentration and avoid contamination.
Benefits of dehydrated garlic on operational efficiency
The use of garlic in dehydrated formats (powder, flakes and granules) improves production efficiency by:
- Reduce preparation and peeling times.
- Ensure precise and controlled dosing.
- Facilitate large-scale storage without the need for refrigeration.
Where to buy the best wholesale garlic format?
If you are looking for a specialized garlic supplier for the food industry, The Garlic Factory It is the best option. Our company has more than 100 years of experience in the production and distribution of garlic in different formats, guaranteeing quality and traceability in each order.
We work with 100% Spanish raw materials, ensuring a high quality product with stable availability throughout the year. In addition, we offer a wide variety of formats, ideal for the production of sausages, meat products, ready meals, sauces, soups and frozen foods.
Advantages of buying wholesale garlic with The Garlic Factory:
- Constant supply and competitive prices without sudden variations.
- Wide variety of formats adapted to the food industry.
- Quality and food safety certifications that guarantee product excellence.
- Customized packaging options to facilitate integration into industrial processes.
If you need garlic powder, flakes, granules, paste, peeled cloves or garlic extract with maximum quality and supply guarantee, contact our team to learn more about our wholesale garlic options. Request technical sheets, samples and personalized quotes to optimize your production with the best garlic on the market.