dairy science, protein chemistry, fermentation, starter cultures, sensory analysis, food biochemistry, shelf-life, butter, whey protein
Topic 2: Towards diverse, sustainable and circular food processing systems
We are seeking a research partner (University or Research Institute) with strong expertise in dairy science and food chemistry to join our consortium for the BUTTERWHEY-TRL project. The project aims to valorize acid-lactic whey from artisanal cheese production into two high-value products: a premium fermented butter and a functional whey protein concentrate (WPC).
The ideal partner will lead and contribute to the following key areas:
- **Biochemical Characterization:** In-depth analysis of the chemical and biochemical composition of the concentrated whey proteins and cream fractions obtained from our pilot plant.
- **Fermentation and Maturation:** Expertise in selecting and managing starter cultures for cream fermentation, optimizing the maturation process to develop unique sensory profiles in the butter.
- **Sensory and Nutritional Analysis:** Conducting professional sensory panel analysis (descriptive and hedonic) of the final fermented butter and performing detailed nutritional composition analysis.
- **Shelf-life Studies:** Designing and executing stability and shelf-life studies for the developed products.
This partner will play a crucial role in understanding the fundamental science behind the transformation of the raw materials and ensuring the final products meet the highest quality standards. The partner should be from a different country than Spain.
Queso Rey Silo is an artisanal cheese dairy based in Asturias, Spain, with a long tradition in producing high-quality lactic curd cheeses under the brand name "Rey Silo". As the coordinator of the BUTTERWHEY-TRL project, we are committed to innovation and sustainability in the dairy sector. Our primary goal is to develop a circular economy model by transforming acid-lactic whey, a challenging co-product, into valuable food ingredients. We will host the R&D pilot plant and lead the overall project management, process integration, and validation activities. We are looking for complementary partners to build a strong, transnational consortium to advance the TRL of this innovative process from 4 to 7.
