Project

Process integration for rapid implementation of sustainable innovative food processing (i³-Food)

The main objective of the European project i³-Food is to implement 3 innovative food processing technologies assuring the validation of optimum process control under industrial conditions. These technologies are:

  • pulsed electric field preservation of liquid food products (e.g., fruit juices or smoothies),
  • high pressure thermal sterilization for ready-to-eat-meals,
  • low shear extrusion of cold food products (ice cream).

The i³-Food project will achieve an optimum process control leading to the application of these technologies under real life operating conditions. This will be done by demonstrating and piloting in a near to operational environment of applicable validation systems for each technology. We will define a scientific and cutting edge strategy for overcoming the market barriers ensuring a fast and wide market uptake. Finally, our multidisciplinary endeavor will connect and amplify the EU strengths in advanced technologies research.

For a rapid and easy market uptake, an analysis of the innovation environment and an identification of opportunities  (in phase 1) as well as a roadmapping process for market penetration per technology (in phase 2) will be performed by Fraunhofer ISI. This integrated approach will provide maximal synergies in between the 3 aforementioned technologies. Application opportunities beyond the known use cases will be also explored.

Duration

04/2015 – 03/2018

Client

European Commission

Partners

4 research and technology organizations:

  • Deutsches Institut für Lebensmitteltechnik e.V. (DIL)
  • Food&Biobased Research, Institute within Stichting Dienst Landbouwkundig Onderzoek, Wageningen University Research (FBR)
  • Institut de Recerca i Tecnologia Agroalimentàries (IRTA)
  • Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovation Reseach ISI

4 small and medium-sized enterprises (SME):

  • Elea Vertriebs- und vermarktungsgesellschaft mbH (ELEA)
  • Erdbär GmbH (ERDB)
  • Foodcase International Bv (FOD)
  • Entex Rust & Mitschke GmbH (Entex)

2 large industry partners:

  • Hoogesteger Bv (Hoogesteger)
  • DMK Eis GmbH (DMK)

Project Coordinator

  • Deutsches Institut für Lebensmitteltechnik e.V. (DIL)

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