Text B. Methods of mixing dough

Bakery products are made from flour by moistening, processing raw materials. In its basic ingredients, processes and characteristics, bread has changed little since the Stone Age. Namely, flour, water, salt and yeast are mixed into a dough and allowed to ferment for a given number of hours, the dough mass is then divided into pieces of the desired weight, moulded, again allowed to expand during the final proof period and finally are baked. However, close control of processes produces a more uniform product, and enrichment of materials results in a more nutritious product.

There are two main methods of mixing dough: the "sponge and dough" method and the "straight" process.

In the sponge and dough method the yeast is first mixed with warm water and a small quantity of flour and the mixture is worked up into a kind of sponge. This mixture is then put aside and fermented for approximately 3 - 4 hr; more flour is then added, and all the ingredients are mechanically mixed and become a dough. The dough is given a short fermentation period, after which it is run through the various makeup equipment.

The straight method differs from the sponge and dough process in that all ingredients are added at one time and that there is only one mixing stage and one fermentation period. The fermentation period for a straight dough is approximately 2-3 hr. After fermentation is complete, the dough enters the divider and continues through the same makeup equipment as for the sponge and dough method.