22.05.2025
Tailored Processing Solutions from NETZSCH in three Process Sectors for Alternative Proteins
Alternative proteins are revolutionizing the way we eat and NETZSCH provides the technology to support this transformation. With advanced machinery and process solutions for wet and dry processing, we enable efficient production of high-quality proteins from a wide range of raw materials. Our expertise covers three key areas: Protein Shifting, Insect Proteins, and Cell Disruption.
Processing of Plant-Based Raw Materials
Protein Shifting
Gentle dry processing for high-quality plant protein fractions
Legumes, cereals, and oilseeds such as peas, fava beans, lentils, oats, or sunflower seeds are well-established sources of plant protein. To unlock their full potential, the process must be gentle, energy-efficient, and tailored to the specific material.
NETZSCH dry grinding machines, such as the Classifier Mill CSM, ensure consistent fineness with minimal energy input. Combined with the
High-efficiency Fine Classifier CFS/HD-S, protein and starch fractions can be precisely separated and enriched – with high yields and preserved functionality. Our modular solutions scale from lab to industrial level and meet the highest hygiene standards.
Further Information: Application Literature
Efficient protein shifting in detail
Utilization of Animal-Based Alternatives
Insect Proteins
Efficient processing of complex insect-based raw materials
Insects like mealworms, crickets, or buffalo worms offer a sustainable, nutrient-rich protein source – for both animal feed and human consumption. However, their fat and chitin content, hygroscopic behavior, and thermal sensitivity pose processing challenges.
NETZSCH provides tailored solutions for both wet and dry processing: from pre-cutting and fine grinding of larvae using the Pre-cutting System MasterCream and the Horizontal Disk Mill MasterRefiner, to dry milling insect powder with the Fine Impact Mill Condux® Compact. These systems ensure efficient size reduction, high throughput, and long product shelf life, with hygienic design and optional ATEX compliance.
Newsletter
Unlocking Microorganisms as Protein Sources
Cell Disruption
Targeted wet grinding for efficient protein release
Microorganisms such as yeasts, bacteria, and algae contain valuable proteins and bioactive compounds. These must be made accessible through efficient cell disruption, without compromising their structure.
NETZSCH offers decades of experience in gentle, reproducible cell disruption using wet grinding machines like the Horizontal Disk Mill MasterRefiner and the Economic Dispersionizer Omega®. By precisely controlling temperature, energy input, and media load, we enable the efficient release of intracellular substances without denaturation.
Our machines are scalable from R&D to industrial production and can be combined with separation and drying technologies for a complete solution, tailored to your raw material and product goals.
