A Comprehensive Review of the Rehydration of Instant Powders: Mechanisms, Influencing Factors, and Improvement Strategies

Instant powder, with its high formulation flexibility, ease of quantification, long shelf life, and convenient storage and transportation, holds a significant position in the modern food industry and has experienced rapid development. However, most powder products not optimized for instant use often encounter issues such as surface floating and clumping during rehydration. Some products remain unevenly distributed even after stirring or extending the settling time, severely impacting consumer experience. This paper systematically reviews the key factors influencing the rehydration performance of instant powders, including chemical composition, particle microstructure, and processing techniques. It also delves into corresponding improvement strategies, such as particle structure design, particle modification, and the optimization of rehydration methods. This paper aims to provide theoretical references and practical guidance for technological innovation and product development in the field of instant powders.