Increasing process efficiency in plant-based food production
3 ways how KROHNE helps plant-based food companies to achieve high efficiency in quality and to scale up production
Faster production and tighter control of core and costly ingredients
Precise measurements in fermentation processes despite the mix of fibres, solids and air
Change production from a batch to an inline blending
With an increasing number of people shifting towards alternative proteins for health or ethical reasons, the demand for delicious plant-based recipes is on the rise. Manufacturers face the challenge of improving taste and variety in plant-based foods. Innovative techniques can enhance flavours and textures, making plant-based nutrition more appealing.
Food manufacturers are under immense pressure to constantly innovate, improve processes, and respond quickly to market trends and consumer expectations – all while keeping an eye on the bottom line. Creating a high-quality product often means navigating a challenging and complex production process in balance with a target for production efficiency.
How can KROHNE help with these challenges?
Manufacturers of plant-based meat and fish substitutes have special requirements, starting with the input logistics through to the measurement accurate to the gram. At KROHNE, we deeply understand the unique and stringent requirements that come with working with sensitive media – but also of the necessity to reduce costs in order to bring products to the market at a lower price.
Producing plant-based meat and fish substitutes is a major challenge, especially when it comes to increasing efficiency and reducing costs without sacrificing texture —the key to consumer acceptance. Through extrusion, we achieve textures nearly identical to meat and fish. Maintaining all ingredients in precisely the right proportions (+0.1% accuracy of mass is possible), at the right density, at the right cooking or cooling temperature at the required operating pressure is what we take care of.
How KROHNE supports alternative protein producers
Faster production and tighter control of core and costly ingredients
KROHNE process instrumentation ensures precise control over production by accurately measuring ingredients and finished products. During ingredient handling, our tank level measurement solutions automate storage management. Our pressure transmitters monitor various stages like extrusion or pasteurisation, to maintain optimal conditions. Additionally, our temperature sensors provide accurate temperature measurements, to ensure product quality and safety. Filling and dosing of the final product can be measured with excellent accuracy and stability using dedicated flowmeters and systems.
Precise measurements in fermentation processes despite the mix of fibres, solids and air
Slurries, such as soy concentrate, can be highly viscous and virtually behave like solids, when no shear stress applied. Our Coriolis flowmeters with EGM™ entrained gas management maintain operation and high repeatability of measurements – despite the presence of fibres, solids or air entrainment in the slurry, dough or any other kind of mash. Mass flow and direct density measurement of aerated products is already possible at the mixing stage. This accuracy is critical in fermentation for consistent results and cost-effective production. Unlike traditional sensors, KROHNE’s Coriolis mass flowmeters handle complex flows with ease, even when viscosity and density vary due to different protein feedstock sources, composition and processing methods.
Change production from a batch to an inline blending
KROHNE devices weigh and blend soy, wheat, lupin or similar based slurries inline and in real time. This method eliminates process delays and interruptions associated with batch switching and unlocks the potential to accelerate the production scale. In addition, unwanted production tolerances can be tightened and the highest repeatability will be enabled, even under challenging conditions. Inline weighing and density measurement ensure precise ingredient control, enabling the transition from pilot to commercial scale and accelerating growth in the plant-based protein industry.
Contribution to Sustainability
Supporting the competitiveness of the sustainable food market for alternative proteins with a complete portfolio of instrumentation and application expertise
Ensuring optimal process performance and consistent product quality
Maintaining tightest production tolerances, minimising waste and maximising profitability through inline blending principle
Further Benefits
Gaining valuable process insights and optimisation of production efficiency and return of investment
Evaluation of the shear rate and rheology of the product and optimisation of the production process
Ensuring hygienic production processes and preventing contamination
Evolution of your new food production from batch to inline
The global shift towards sustainable eating habits underlines the need for innovative technology within the industry. KROHNE understands the importance of precise process instrumentation in improving the efficiency and quality of plant-based food production. With KROHNE's measurement technologies we are setting the stage for advancements in this rapidly growing industry. Selected highlights, such as KROHNE Coriolis flowmeters with EGM™ Entrained gas Management, ensure precise measurements and address common challenges such as ingredient variability. This is critical to maintaining high standards in large-scale operations, while tightening the production tolerances help minimise waste and ensure that products meet consumer expectations.