Demand for proteins and functional food ingredients from non-animal sources is continuing to soar, as they play a vital role in climate-friendly nutrition. However, protein-rich, plant-based raw materials often have to be mechanically broken down. Here, Bauermeister Zerkleinerungstechnik offers process-optimised solutions that are both reliable and cost-efficient, and will be showcasing its expert offerings at POWTECH TECHNOPHARM 2025.

As Bauermeister’s technology is tailored to individual customer requirements, manufacturers of vegetarian and vegan food alternative ingredients can efficiently grind plant-based raw materials such as soy, fava beans, or lupine. This enables the production of powdered raw materials for vegan burger patties or chicken substitutes, fibre and protein enrichment, and the upcycling of plant-based by-products for texture and sensory enhancement. With precision fermentation, the grinding of dry substrate mixtures also ensures good solubility and homogeneity of precious nutrients.

The company has been developing and manufacturing grinding technology for the food, mineral, and chemical industries for more than 140 years. As part of the Probat Group, Bauermeister has access to a global technology network and a comprehensive portfolio of machinery, along with process engineering. Michael Haack, Sales Manager for the global new machinery business, says: “Our long-term successful market presence is based on lasting customer relationships. While the currently volatile new food market offers great potential, it also requires a high degree of flexibility. Here, we are a proven and reliable partner.”

Optimal shredding process

Depending on the material properties of the raw material, process engineers select suitable plant components and process parameters. When all customer specifications – such as particle size distribution, product throughput, or moisture content – are met, the most appropriate plant technology is decided. This will encompass both cost and process engineering requirements. “We take a very systematic approach to process development. Our product is not only market-leading, reliable grinding technology, but also a process precisely tailored to customer requirements. That’s why we also carry out extensive preliminary tests at our Technology Centre in Norderstedt,” explains Moritz Weichenthal, Head of Process Engineering at Bauermeister.

Two-stage plant engineering for ultimate flexibility

Depending on the configuration, mass flows from 100kg/h to 8t/h can be processed. Optimal engineering of the grinding tools and rotor peripheral speeds ensures precise compliance with individual fineness requirements for superior grinding results. An example of the tried-and-tested mill portfolio is the Gap Mill GM, which is used worldwide for a variety of ground materials. Its sieveless design reduces caking and wear, and is particularly well-suited to fibrous products. If required, the mills can be combined with a separate air classifier, ensuring reduced wear and a wider range of configurations without impacting end-product quality, as mills and classifiers can be freely combined.

The durability of the impact mills and air classifiers is supported by extensive after-sales service and supply of spare parts. Says Michael Haack: “We receive requests for parts for impact mills that have been operating reliably for over 40 years. In short, you can rely on Bauermeister.”

Bauermeister will be exhibiting at POWTECH TECHNOPHARM 2025 in Nuremberg from September 23-25, in Hall 9, Stand 9-219.