Wheat flour is the most common flour used in batter
systems (Loewe, 1993). However, rice, corn, and soy flours
have also been used (Robert, 1990). Shih and Daigle (1999)
observed a 69% reduction in oil absorption by using rice
flour batter on shrimp products, compared to using wheat
flour. Rice flour resulted in a rough crust on the coating
due to its less effective role as a thickening agent. However,
it still showed some potential as an alternative to wheat
flour in batter formulations. Corn flour generally produces
a yellowish color due to the carotene pigment in the
corn, and may be useful as a source of natural yellow
color (Salvador, Sanz, & Fiszman, 2003). In general, higher
levels of corn increase crispness and decrease puffing in
batter systems due to decreased moisture retention in the
coating. Corn is also often added to control viscosity as its
higher starch level affects the batter’s ability to absorb
water (Roger, 1990). Combining different flours may
provide special effects.