membrane filtration, ultrafiltration, microfiltration, dairy processing, whey processing, separation technology, food engineering, process optimization, pilot plant
Topic 2: Towards diverse, sustainable and circular food processing systems
We are seeking a technology partner (University, Research Institute, or Company) with proven expertise in membrane filtration technologies for the dairy industry to join our consortium for the BUTTERWHEY-TRL project. The project focuses on the valorization of acid-lactic whey into fermented butter and whey protein concentrate (WPC).
The ideal partner will provide critical expertise in the following areas:
- **Process Design and Optimization:** Collaboration on the design and optimization of the microfiltration (MF) and ultrafiltration (UF) steps to efficiently separate fat and protein from acid-lactic whey.
- **Membrane Selection and Testing:** Expertise in selecting the most suitable membranes (materials, pore sizes) for this specific application. We are open to partners interested in testing new or prototype membranes in a real-world operational environment.
- **Pilot Plant Integration:** Providing technical support and know-how for the integration and operation of the membrane filtration units within our R&D pilot plant.
- **Process Scaling and Validation:** Assisting in the validation of the process parameters and contributing to the development of a technical dossier for the future pre-commercial scaling of the technology.
We are particularly interested in partners who can bring innovative solutions to the challenges of fouling and cleaning (CIP) in the context of acid whey processing. 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.
