Machinery News

  • HRS Heat Exchangers - Choosing heat exchangers for viscous food products

    Heat exchangers are key components in many processes in the food industry, from heating and cooling to pasteurisation, sterilisation and evaporation. They come in many forms, from the simplest plate heat exchangers to corrugated tube-in-tube and scraped surface designs. With so many different food and drink products in production across the globe, choosing the right heat exchanger for the right product and the right process is vital, not only to ensure effective processing and optimum product quality, but also to maximise operational and energy efficiency.   This is particularly true when dealing with viscous foodstuffs (such as honey, mayonnaise, syrups, purees and nut butters). They require more energy to pump and move and often have a higher potential to foul pipework and heat exchangers, reducing heat transfer and operational efficiency. However, as their texture and viscosity are also important quality characteristics, it is important that processing equipment, including heat exchangers, does not change or disrupt them during production.   What is meant by viscosity? When considering different sorts of viscous food and drink materials, it is useful to clarify what we mean by viscosity. It is normally defined as a measure of a substance’s resistance to motion under an applied force, based on the amount of force required to remove one layer in relation to another (shear stress) and the change in speed of the layers relative to each other (the shear rate). It is measured in units called centipoise (cP) with one cP being equal to 1 mPa sec-1 (millipascal per second). For example, depending on temperature, milk may have a typical viscosity between one and 20 cP, while molasses may be 5,000 – 10,000, ketchup (which thins when sheared) 10,000 – 18,000 cP, and peanut butter as much as 250,000 cP. However, the viscosity of different products can change as they are subjected to different levels of sheer stress and temperature. Because of this, most fluids are classified as being either Newtonian, or non-Newtonian. Newtonian fluids have the same viscosity irrespective of changes in temperature or shear stress – the most common example of this is water. Non-Newtonian fluids (which can then be sub-divided into five different categories) have viscosities which fluctuate depending on the shear rate applied. In practice, this means that when dealing with non-Newtonian products (such as cheese, cream, batter or custard, and certain fat-free products), elements of the processing operation – including pumping, heating, cooling and passing through pipework – all have the potential to affect a product’s viscosity and end quality if not handled correctly.   Corrugated tube heat exchangers: design & selection Choosing the correct type of heat exchanger, together with careful system design, helps avoid such problems. Corrugated tube heat exchangers, such as those designed and produced by HRS, ensure that delicate products such as cream can be processed efficiently without damage. This is because the corrugated tube design helps minimise fouling, increasing thermal efficiency during operation, and extending operational periods between cleanings. In addition, corrugated tube heat exchangers have a lower pumping requirement than smooth tubular heat exchangers due to their compact nature, which results in a lower pressure drop. This helps to increase operational life while reducing maintenance costs compared with other types of heat exchanger. Products with low or medium viscosities, such as milk, thin sauces, soups and creams, fruit and vegetable juices and purees, can usually be efficiently processed in multi-tube corrugated heat exchangers, like the HRS MI Series. These feature multiple tubes that carry the product within a large vessel which contains the service fluid. Where products contain pieces or particulates, such as fruit and vegetable dices, then a double-tube heat exchanger, like the HRS DTA Series, is recommended. In a double-tube heat exchanger, one large tube carries the product, so there is less chance of blockage and fouling by the particles contained in the food product. For products such as thick sauces, honey and syrups, an annular-space heat exchanger like the HRS AS Series is preferable. These consist of three or four concentric tubes, with the product flowing through the annular space between the tubes and the service fluid flowing through the inner and outer tubes to ensure even heating and cooling. This arrangement increases both heat transfer and energy efficiency and minimises potential fouling.   Scraped surface heat exchangers for the toughest challenges For the most viscous products, the use of corrugated tubes will not be sufficient to prevent fouling or maintain movement through the exchanger. In these cases, scraped surface heat exchangers (SSHEs) are ideal, particularly for evaporation. At HRS we produce two types of SSHE: the rotating HRS R Series, which includes a unique spiral scraper bar system and baffle placement; and the HRS Unicus Series, which uses a reciprocating movement to mix the fluid whilst cleaning the heat exchange surface. For extremely viscous products and demanding applications, such as nut butters, a heavy-duty version of the R Series, the HRS RHD Series has been developed. This comprises all the features and benefits of the standard R Series but with increased motor size and scraping rods, together with extra mounting supports for the scrapers and motor. The separate hydraulic action of the Unicus Series means that the speed of the scrapers (which are available in a number of different designs) is highly controllable and can be optimised for the product being processed. Materials which are susceptible to shear stress or pressure damage can therefore be handled gently to prevent such damage while still providing high levels of heat transfer.   Between our range of corrugated tube heat exchangers, and the three models of SSHE, HRS has a heat transfer solution for any viscous food product, including condensed milk, tomato paste, purees, juice concentrates, honey, butter, margarine, nut butters, chocolate, sauces, minced meats, and many more. For more information, please contact your local representative or our food systems specialists today. About HRS Heat Exchangers Located in Malaysia, HRS Heat Exchangers is part of the EIL Group (Exchanger Industries Limited) which operates at the forefront of thermal technology. HRS offers innovative heat transfer solutions worldwide across a diverse range of industries. With more than 40 years’ experience in the food and drink sector, specialising in the design and manufacture of an extensive range of turnkey systems and components, incorporating our corrugated tubular and scraped surface heat exchanger technology, HRS products are compliant with global design and industry standards. HRS has a network of offices throughout the world: Australia, Canada, New Zealand, UK, Spain, USA, Malaysia and India; with manufacturing plants in India, Spain and Canada. For sales enquiries please contact:  [email protected] Tel: +603 8081 1898 Website: www.hrs-heatexchangers.com More

    Industry News

  • Arjuna’s High Efficacy Ashwagandha Extract Gets Health Canada Endorsement

    New recognition greenlights Arjuna’s Shoden® health claims for reducing stress and aiding sleep Kerala, India - Nutraceutical pioneers Arjuna Natural Pvt. Ltd., announces that its Shoden® ashwagandha extract has been approved as a Natural Health Product (NHP) by Health Canada. This official endorsement affirms the botanical composition’s safety and efficacy, and validates it as a trusted, high-quality product in the Canadian natural health market. A Natural Product Number from Health Canada is globally regarded as the gold standard in natural health-product certification. To attain such, a product must undergo a rigorous pre-market review process involving testing the ingredient for purity and potency and evaluating published scientific research and clinical studies on the product. These measures ensure that natural dietary supplements meet stringent quality standards before they are licensed. Shoden® is a highly bioactive extract of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), distinguished by its standardization to more than 35% withanolide glycosides (as measured by HPLC), the key active compounds in the adaptogenic. Also called Indian Ginseng, the botanical dynamo is noted for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory properties and is considered a “rasayana,” a rejuvenating herb in traditional Ayurvedic medicine due to its studied capacity to enhance overall resilience and vitality. “Our potent ashwagandha extract of the whole plant is derived from carefully chosen and validated sources using a proprietary extraction process,” says Benny Antony, PhD, Joint Managing Director for Arjuna Natural. for Arjuna Natural. “This ensures exceptional absorption and maximum utilization of the full spectrum of withanolide compounds, even at an unusually low dose of 60-120mg. Shoden® holds a string of 23 patents for its unique formulation and manufacturing methods.”   Approved to wear health benefits label “Troublingly, there are numerous unregulated ashwagandha extracts on the market that are failing to deliver what they promise,” asserts Antony. “This recognition by Health Canada confirms Shoden ® as a reliable, scientifically backed source of the extract that delivers the distinct wellness benefits of ashwagandha. It underscores Arjuna Natural’s commitment to supplying regulatory compliant, high-quality ingredients that consumers in Canada and internationally can trust.” Earning this new seal empowers Arjuna to make authorized health claims for its prized ashwagandha extract, potentially opening new doors. It also will allow supplement manufacturers to make label recommendations pertaining to Shoden ®’s specific health benefits on their end products. These include:   Helps improve sleep onset, duration, and quality when used over time. Helps increase resistance to stress and reduce symptoms of mild anxiety in individuals with a history of chronic stress. Helps reduce the symptoms of stress when used over time. May be used in herbal medicine as an adaptogen to help increase energy and resistance to stress over time (e.g., in case of mental and physical fatigue related to stress). Helps promote healthy testosterone production in males. Helps reduce cortisol, a biomarker of physical stress, when used over time.   23 patents and 11 clinical studies strong Shoden® boasts the backing of no fewer than 11 clinical studies and 4 animal studies, supporting its positive role in alleviating stress and anxiety and improving sleep quality, even at low doses. The studies have linked its stress-relieving effects to its ability to regulate the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis, reducing the stress hormone cortisol and increasing GABA neurotransmitters for relaxation. Another clinical study highlights its immunomodulating benefits, demonstrating natural improvements in immune cell markers, including natural killer and T-cell activity, all suggesting potential for reducing infection risks and boosting immunity. Importantly, a pharmacokinetics evaluation of the highly standardized and purified Shoden® formulation in blood serum samples revealed exceptional bioavailability of the beneficial withanolides. Moreover, acute and subchronic toxicity studies on animals have proven excellent safety credentials. “We are excited to bring Shoden® to the Canadian nutraceutical space and look forward to collaborating with researchers and product developers, not only in Canada but internationally, helping them to create innovative solutions for stress management and overall well-being,” adds Antony. “The US, and countries in Europe and Asia view Health Canada approval as a highly reliable benchmark for quality, which will fast-track Shoden ®’s expansion into those markets.”   Shoden®­­­­­­­­­­­­ is available in three doses and in multiple supplement formats, including pills, capsules, and powders. With the rising popularity of functional foods, its low -dosing capabilities allow it to be integrated seamlessly into food and beverage applications, including soft drinks, energy shots and other sports nutritional products. About Arjuna Natural For more than a quarter of a century Arjuna Natural has been India’s leading manufacturer of standardized spice and botanical extracts for food supplement industries. Established in 1989, the company is, dedicated to eco-friendly and sustainable practices and has grown rapidly, serving customers in 70 countries. Arjuna has an advanced research facility that works in collaboration with international universities on phytochemistry, pharmacokinetics, formulation, development, and pre-clinical and toxicity research. Arjuna Natural’s facilities comply with the highest world standards, are GMP-certified, and have ISO, NSF, Star-K kosher, and halal certification.   For further information, please contact:   Company contact Arjuna Natural Pvt Benny Antony, PhD Joint Managing Director Email: [email protected] Website: www.arjunanatural.com Twitter: @ArjunaExtracts                                   More

    Exhibition News

  • Mega Horeca Nigeria 2026: Leading the Way for West Africa’s Hospitality and Culinary Evolution

    Mega Horeca Nigeria 2026: West Africa’s Leading Hub for Hospitality & F&B Excellence With Nigeria’s hospitality, food, and beverage industries rapidly expanding, the 5th edition of Mega Horeca Nigeria reaffirms its position as the premier platform for innovation, networking, and business growth. This flagship event , Organized by Elan Expo, will take place from February 10–12, 2026 at the Landmark Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria. This event will highlight projects like Aace Foods’ plant-based product development, N&N Retail Solutions’ smart inventory management systems, and Optimus Bank’s financing for small-scale restaurant ventures, fostering partnerships and unveiling innovative solutions to propel West Africa’s thriving hospitality and F&B sectors.   Connecting Global Hospitality Visionaries in Lagos Building on the success of Mega Horeca Nigeria 2025, which welcomed 95 global brands from 18 countries and attracted over 8,400 professional buyers, the 2026 edition will drive partnerships, unveil cutting-edge solutions, and fuel market growth. Countries represented in the previous edition included Nigeria, Canada, Turkey, Croatia, UAE, India, Australia, USA, France, Spain, UK, Ireland, China, South Korea, Switzerland, Germany, Italy, and Thailand.   “Mega Horeca Nigeria 2025 was an excellent platform for making connections and boosting sales. It was an experience worth having, and I’d highly recommend it to others in the industry. I’m looking forward to exhibiting next year.” LSDA   Advancing the Industry with Expert Insights Mega Horeca Nigeria 2026 is more than an exhibition – it is a hub for industry transformation. Visitors will connect with leading brands, discover the latest products and services, and gain insights from expert-led workshops and conferences covering market trends, technological advancements, and business strategies. Mega Horeca Nigeria 2025 gained insights from six expert-led workshops and conferences covering market trends, technological advancements, and business strategies, including sessions on sustainable tourism practices like eco-friendly sourcing and waste reduction, AI-driven personalization for guest experiences, and the rise of plant-based and localized Afro-fusion menus. The event enjoys continued support from leading industry professionals and stakeholders namely NIFST, AFAN, Lagos State Caterers and Decorators Association, and Hotels & Venues Ltd who recognize its unique role in shaping the hospitality and F&B ecosystem in West Africa.   Top Brands Choose Mega Horeca The 2026 exhibitor lineup will feature a powerful blend of global and regional leaders across the hotel, restaurant, and café supply chains. Past exhibitors include well-known names such as Aace Foods Nigeria Limited (Food Processing), Lavazza (Beverages), N&N Retail Solutions Ltd (Technology Solutions ), and Buhler (Kitchen & Catering Technologies) alongside international innovators from across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. This diverse roster combines global innovation with local expertise, reinforcing Mega Horeca Nigeria’s role as a catalyst for industry growth.   Showcasing Next Wave of Hospitality Innovation Hotel Equipment & Supplies Restaurant & Café Solutions Food & Beverage Processing Kitchen & Catering Technologies Coffee, Tea & Bakery Products Packaging & Refrigeration Systems Co-Located with Nigeria Halal Expo 2026 creating a powerful synergy between the hospitality, food service, and halal-certified industries. This co-location expands opportunities for exhibitors and visitors by linking mainstream hospitality solutions with the fast-growing halal economy. It enables participants to access halal-certified products and services, strengthen cross-sector collaboration, and broaden international trade opportunities.   Save the Date! Venue: Landmark Event Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos Date: Fenruary 10–12, 2026 Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily   About Elan Expo Elan Expo is a globally active B2B event organizer based in Istanbul, managing over 30 top-tier trade shows annually across Africa, the Middle East, and Eurasia. With deep expertise in connecting industries and markets, Elan Expo fuels business growth across construction, real estate, agriculture, beauty, healthcare, and more.   Contact Information Phone: +90 850 255 53 77 Website: www.megahorecaexpo.com/nigeria/ Email: [email protected] More

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