PMG Engineering | Build World-Class Food Factories | Technology

Extraction tanks for plant proteins

Extraction tanks for plant proteins are equipment used in the processing of plant-based protein products. They are used to extract protein from plant materials such as soybeans, peas, and canola seeds. These tanks are typically large vessels that use a combination of mechanical and chemical methods to extract the protein from the plant material.

Here are some key features and components of extraction tanks for plant proteins:

1. Mixing system: The plant material is mixed with water and other chemicals to create a slurry that is then heated and agitated. This helps to break down the plant material and extract the protein.

2. Heating system: The slurry is heated to a specific temperature, typically between 80 and 90 degrees Celsius, to further aid in protein extraction.

3. Separation system: After the slurry has been heated and agitated, it is separated into solid and liquid components. The liquid component contains the extracted protein, while the solid component contains other plant material such as fibers and starch.

4. Filtration system: The liquid component is then filtered to remove any remaining solids and impurities.

5. Concentration system: The filtered liquid is then concentrated to increase the protein content, typically through a process of evaporation.

The extracted plant protein can then be further processed, such as through drying or additional filtration, to produce a purified protein product. Extraction tanks for plant proteins are an important piece of equipment in the production of plant-based protein products, as they enable the efficient extraction of protein from plant material with high yields and minimal waste.

Extraction tanks for plant proteins are used in the production of a wide range of plant-based protein products, including plant-based meat substitutes, protein powders, and dairy alternatives. They are an essential component of the plant-based protein industry, enabling the efficient processing of plant materials to produce high-quality protein products.

Extraction tanks for plant proteins are used in the production of a wide range of food products that require plant-based protein ingredients. Here are some examples of food products that are commonly processed using extraction tanks for plant proteins:

1. Plant-based meat substitutes: Extraction tanks are used to produce plant-based meat substitutes such as burgers, sausages, and nuggets. These products often use soy, pea, or wheat protein as a primary ingredient.

2. Protein powders and supplements: Extraction tanks are used to produce protein powders and supplements that are popular with athletes and fitness enthusiasts. These products are typically made with soy, pea, or rice protein.

3. Dairy alternatives: Extraction tanks are used to produce dairy alternatives such as soy milk, almond milk, and oat milk. These products use soy or other plant-based proteins as a replacement for dairy proteins.

4. Baked goods: Extraction tanks are used to produce protein-enriched baked goods such as bread, crackers, and muffins. These products often use soy or pea protein as an ingredient.

5. Infant formula: Extraction tanks are used to produce plant-based protein ingredients that are used in infant formula. These products are formulated to provide the necessary nutrition for infants who cannot consume dairy-based formula.

Extraction tanks for plant proteins are used in the production of a wide range of food products that require high-quality plant-based protein ingredients. They are an essential component of the plant-based food industry, enabling the efficient processing of plant materials to produce high-quality protein products.

Extraction tanks for plant proteins use a combination of mechanical and chemical methods to extract protein from plant materials. Here is a general working principle of extraction tanks for plant proteins:

1. Preparation: The plant material is cleaned and sorted, and then ground or milled into small particles to increase the surface area for protein extraction.

2. Mixing: The ground plant material is mixed with water and other chemicals, such as alkalis or acids, to create a slurry. The chemicals help to break down the cell walls of the plant material, releasing the protein.

3. Heating: The slurry is then heated to a specific temperature, typically between 80 and 90 degrees Celsius, to further aid in protein extraction.

4. Separation: After heating, the slurry is separated into solid and liquid components. The liquid component contains the extracted protein, while the solid component contains other plant materials such as fibers and starch.

5. Filtration: The liquid component is then filtered to remove any remaining solids and impurities.

6. Concentration: The filtered liquid is then concentrated to increase the protein content, typically through a process of evaporation.

The extracted plant protein can then be further processed, such as through drying or additional filtration, to produce a purified protein product. The specific working principle of an extraction tank for plant proteins can vary depending on the type of plant material being processed and the specific equipment being used. However, the general principle of mechanical and chemical methods to extract protein from plant materials remains the same. Overall, extraction tanks for plant proteins enable the efficient extraction of protein from plant materials with high yields and minimal waste, making them an essential component of the plant-based food industry.

Extraction tanks are used in the production of plant-based proteins, which have become increasingly popular as a result of the growing demand for meat alternatives and vegan products. The market for extraction tanks for plant proteins is expected to grow significantly in the coming years due to several factors.

One of the main drivers of the market is the increasing demand for plant-based proteins. As consumers become more health-conscious and environmentally aware, they are seeking out plant-based alternatives to animal protein. This trend is expected to continue as more consumers adopt a flexitarian or vegan lifestyle.

Another factor driving the market is the increasing demand for clean label and natural ingredients. Extraction tanks can be used to extract protein from a variety of plant sources, including soy, pea, rice, and hemp. These proteins are often marketed as clean label and natural ingredients, appealing to consumers who are looking for products with minimal processing and no artificial ingredients.

In addition to consumer demand, there is also growing interest in plant-based proteins from the food industry. Food manufacturers are looking for new and innovative ways to incorporate plant-based proteins into their products, and extraction tanks provide an efficient and scalable solution.

There are several companies that specialize in the production of extraction tanks for plant proteins, including Alfa Laval, GEA Group, and Praj Industries. These companies offer a range of solutions for the extraction of plant-based proteins, including batch and continuous extraction systems.

The market for extraction tanks for plant proteins is expected to grow significantly in the coming years as demand for plant-based proteins continues to increase. As more companies enter the market and develop new and innovative extraction technologies, the industry is likely to become even more competitive, leading to further innovation and growth.