There are a number of factors influencing gelatinization, including temperature, timing, stirring, the presence of acid, sugar, fat and proteins. Stirring both initially and throughout the gelatinization process helps to create uniform consistency and prevent lumps from forming. However, excessive stirring after gelatinization rupture swollen granules prematurely, resulting a thin, slippery starch mixture. During cooking of starch granules, acids such as vinegar, citrus juices, etc, break down the starch granules to short-chain polymers. The starch granules absorbs less water and the final sauce product is thinner. Therefore, it is best to add the acidic ingredients later, after gelatinization has occured. Sugar competes with the starch for water, delays the absorption of water by starch granules, and increases the temperature required for gelatinization to occur. To achieve a thicker sauce, it is better to add part of the sugar before gelatinization and add the reminder later. Fat and proteins coats to the surface of the starch granules so water can not easily penetrate during gelatinization, as a result, there is less granular swelling and the sauce is thinner.