Q: Our business is selling decorated and sculptured cakes. We sometimes run out of piping gel, and I would appreciate an easy formula for a small amount of gel to keep us decorating until we get our delivery.
K.P., Clifton Park, N.J.

A: Try this formula for piping gel.

Q: What is the difference between spices and herbs? We would like to know to give an appropriate description of our products.
M.D., Salem, N.C.

A: Historically, "spices" referred to the tropical aromatics only, while "herbs" meant specifically the leaves and seeds of certain temperate-zone plants. While those distinctions are still used, spice also has come to mean the whole family of dried plant seasonings, including spices, herbs, blends and dehydrated vegetables.

Q: What is the proper cleaning technique for silicone baking mats?
P.K., Maiza, Ariz.

A: After each use, wipe the mats with a damp, soft, clean cloth or sponge to remove any baked-on particles, then rinse with clean, hot water. Washing with a mild detergent only is recommended when necessary, but do not use any brushes or scrapers. Shake the mat to remove excess water and air-dry. If properly cared for, the mat can be used up to 300 times.

Q: How can I make our icing, which is made with butter or margarine, brighter and whiter?
Nicole, via e-mail

A: You may use titanium dioxide (E171). Add this liquid whitener to tinted icing to soften colors or to whiten icing made with butter or margarine. Titanium dioxide is the most widely used white pigment because of its brightness.

Q: We make our laminated dough with butter, but we are having difficulties working with it. Is there anything we can do to ease handling?
J.P. via e-mail

A: I always add 10 percent bread flour (based on the total amount of butter used as roll-in) to the roll-in butter. The addition of the flour makes the butter more pliable, absorbs some of the moisture and increases the melting point of the roll-in, which makes handling the laminated dough easier.

Q: We use a commercial stainless steel cleaner to wipe down our equipment. However, the spray leaves streaks and spots. Is this normal?
G.D, Norfolk, Va.

A: Do not spray the cleaner directly on the surface. Instead, spray a small amount of stainless steel cleaner on a dry cloth, and wipe the surface. This eliminates the spots.