Protein diversification
We explore alternative protein sources for their application in balanced, tasty, healthy and safe food.
The Food Pilot is the place to go to develop new products, improve processes, or solve problems. A wide set of pilot units (pilot-scale and lab-scale) is available to help solve these issues.
For the extraction and purification of various protein sources, a seed sorting machine, seed cleaning machine, dehuller, oil press, cell disintegration machinery (Pulsed Electric Field), beat mill and rotor mill, reaction vessels, centrifuge, decanter, spray dryer, drum dryer, ultrafiltration and other machines can be used.
Further, a fermentors were bought, at lab scale (4 x 1L) and pilot scale (40 L) for the production of single cell protein from yeasts, fungae, and bacteria.
For the analytical characterisation, protein functionality is measured, such as water and oil binding capacity, emulsifying, gelling and foaming capacity, as well as taste and texture.
Further processing is possible using the extruder, 'High Moisture Extrusion' (HME), a press line for feed production, and machinery to prepare dairy/meat analogs.
Find here an overview of all pilot machines of Food Pilot.
NEW: On November 19th, we celebrated "Microbial Protein Marvels" and showcased our newly invested lab and pilot infrastructure for production and processing of microbial protein in food and feed.
- Find out the impressions of the day!
- Review the guided tour through Food Pilot with a focus on microbial protein
- Enjoy a flight through Bio Base Europe Pilot Plant.
EXTRUSION: Learn more about the technical challenges of High moisture extrusion in this webinar including a demonstration.
Read more about the ILVO Research programme on Protein diversification.
ILVO supports the Green Deal protein shift of the Flemish Governement.