Group 1 - The article discusses various types of yeast used in baking, highlighting their characteristics and applications [3][4][8][10][14][16]. - Fresh yeast is noted for its strong osmotic pressure resistance and high sucrose conversion enzyme activity, making it suitable for high-sugar doughs [3][10]. - Active dry yeast is described as having a similar function to fresh yeast but with a weaker effect, requiring pre-soaking in warm water before use [4][8]. - High-sugar yeast is recommended for doughs with sugar content exceeding 7%, while low-sugar yeast is suitable for products with less sugar [10][15][16]. - Low-sugar yeast utilizes maltose derived from starch as its primary nutrient source, making it effective in low-sugar environments [16][17]. Group 2 - The article emphasizes the importance of yeast selection based on sugar content in dough, which affects fermentation and product quality [10][15][16]. - It explains that high-sugar yeast accelerates the breakdown of sucrose, providing essential nutrients for yeast growth [14][15]. - The article also mentions the potential risks of improper storage temperatures for fresh yeast, which can lead to loss of activity and spoilage [3].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the importance of spraying water on dough before baking, highlighting its effects on the texture and appearance of different types of bread, specifically sweet and hard bread [1][3][45]. Group 1: Effects of Water Spraying - Spraying water on dough helps to expand the crust during baking, resulting in a crispier texture [3][8]. - The method of injecting steam into the oven originated from French bread baking techniques in the mid-19th century [5][6]. - The optimal temperature for baking bread is typically above 204 degrees Celsius, where steam injection allows the bread to expand before the crust hardens [8]. Group 2: Experimental Comparisons - An experiment was conducted comparing sweet and hard bread with varying amounts of water spray (0, 3, and 10 sprays) [10][28]. - For sweet bread, the best results were observed with 3 sprays, which provided a good balance of moisture and texture [26][27]. - For hard bread, 3 sprays also yielded the best appearance and texture, while excessive moisture led to a denser and harder product [43][44]. Group 3: Observations on Appearance and Texture - Sweet bread with no spray had a less appealing shape and texture, while 3 sprays resulted in a shiny surface and good internal structure [20][21][24]. - Hard bread without spray showed cracks and uneven baking, while 3 sprays produced a well-shaped loaf with good internal organization [36][37][40]. - The texture of sweet bread improved with moisture, while hard bread became lighter and airier with the right amount of spray [44].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significant growth and strategic evolution of Bimbo, a leading player in the global baking market, emphasizing its innovative approaches and market penetration strategies, particularly in China [3][12][18]. Group 1: Global Baking Market Overview - The global baking market reached a size of $440 billion in 2022, with the Americas accounting for 36.9% of the market share, and bread products dominating at 54.8% [3]. - Bimbo holds a 3.4% global market share, leading the industry ahead of competitors like Yamazaki (1.4%) and Flower Foods (0.7%) [3]. - As of 2023, Bimbo's annual revenue reached $22.5 billion (approximately 160 billion RMB), with a market capitalization exceeding $22.3 billion [3]. Group 2: Bimbo's Historical Growth - Founded in 1945 by Lorenzo Servitje in Mexico City, Bimbo started with 34 employees and faced early challenges, including product spoilage and competition [5]. - The introduction of glassine packaging in 1948 extended the shelf life of bread from 8 hours to 72 hours, revolutionizing the distribution of baked goods [5]. - Bimbo established a "central factory + capillary wholesale network" in the 1950s, covering 83% of small grocery stores in Mexico by 1963 [6]. Group 3: Global Expansion Strategy - Bimbo entered the U.S. market in 1984, initially facing losses but later adjusted its strategy through acquisitions, including Oroweat and Mrs. Baird's [7]. - The company expanded into Europe and Asia between 2000 and 2010, acquiring major local brands and significantly reducing waste rates in Spain [8]. - Bimbo implemented a "T+12 production rule," ensuring rapid order fulfillment and optimizing inventory turnover to 6.2 days [9]. Group 4: Insights from the Chinese Market - Bimbo's entry into China began with the acquisition of Beijing Panrico in 2006, followed by further acquisitions to create a multi-brand matrix [12]. - The company established a dual R&D center and regional factory cluster to adapt to China's market demands, achieving a 5-day inventory turnover [13]. - Bimbo's product innovation includes localized flavors and health-focused offerings, addressing the 35% of consumers seeking low-sugar options [14]. Group 5: Sustainable Growth Strategies - Bimbo's approach in China illustrates the importance of localizing global resources and adapting supply chain management to fit the e-commerce landscape [17]. - The company targets segmented markets with its three-brand strategy, avoiding direct competition in the short-shelf-life market [17]. - Bimbo's innovation extends into the snack sector, blurring the lines between baking and snacking, similar to successful strategies employed by other global brands [17]. Group 6: Future Outlook - Bimbo's extensive market presence across 34 countries and its diverse product range position it as a significant player in the global food industry [18]. - The company's strategic focus on health and sustainability is expected to redefine food consumption patterns in the future [18].