What is Humectants in Foods? Definition, common Examples & Functions 2020. Humectant Meaning: Humectants are moisture retention agents. Their functions in foods include control of viscosity and texture, bulking, retention of moisture, reduction of water activity, control of crystallization, and improvement or retention of softness. They also help improve the rehydration of dehydrated food and solubilization of flavor compounds. OR A humectant is a hygroscopic substance used to keep things moist, it is the opposite of a desiccant because it is wet. It is often a molecule with several hydrophilic group, most often hydroxyl groups; however, amines and carboxyl groups, sometimes esterified can be encountered as well. Humectant can also be defined as a food additives, used to reduce the loss of moisture and increase it's retentivity. Polyhydroxy alcohols are water soluble, hygro...