The changes in food products during storage that are related to the retrogradation of starch are discussed. First, the starch granule composition and structure are described, followed by a description of the gelatinization and retrogradation processes. The processes are described at a molecular level during gelatinization and retrogradation. Then examples are given on how gelatinization and retrogradation can be measured. Finally, possibilities are explored to change the gelatinization process as well as the retrogradation, including changes in food-processing conditions, selection of starch and the use of additives as well as chemically modified starch.