In January 2020, a new freeze-drying machine was installed at the Shinsei plant of ICHIMARU PHARCOS, and full-scale operation began in January 2021.

　

What is the FD process?

FD is a drying technology in which frozen ingredients are placed in a vacuum to sublimate the water content. In the normal drying process, the evaporation of water causes changes in the material's shape, such as foaming, separation, concentration, surface shrinkage, and hardening, but in the FD process, the material is turned into water vapor (gas) in its frozen state, so there is almost no change in shape. Furthermore, because drying proceeds at low temperatures, there is little change in ingredients, and color, aroma, taste, and nutritional value can be maintained.

Differences from conventional FD equipment

　

Our newly introduced FD machine is equipped with a drying process control system.
The drying process control system allows programming of drying temperature, drying time, and vacuum level, and can be optimally programmed according to the different characteristics of each raw material.
In addition, since the moisture content of the material to be dried can be quantified, it is possible to prevent drying defects and at the same time finish products that are confirmed to be completely dry, eliminating the need for unnecessary drying time.
Furthermore, the new FD machine uses an air-cooled chiller for the cooling system, which reduces the use of large amounts of cooling water. The new FD machine also has a much higher production capacity compared to the conventional machine.

Production capacity of the new FD machine
Effective shelf area: 22m2
Cold trap: 500 kg
Equipped with a drying process control system.

Relationship with SDGs

The new FD machine makes it possible to operate the drying process in a high-performance facility. By improving energy efficiency at the production site and promoting the sustainable production methods, it will support the Sustainable Development Goals 6, 9 and 12: "Build Resilient Infrastructure, Promote Inclusive and Sustainable Industrialization and Foster Innovation", "Clean Water and Sanitation" and "Responsible Production and Consumption" respectively.