Natural extraction method ready for next step

Phytonext, a technology company based in the Netherlands, has been able to achieve natural extracts in a more economical manner courtesy of its innovative extraction technology. Also satisfied that optimal quality and activity of the phytonutrients is retained, the organisation is now looking to progress from its initial pilot trials to a full industrial set-up.

Phytonext believes that the material, energy and operational costs of its technology are significantly lower as compared to other extraction methods, primarily because the technology extracts specific phytonutrients from raw materials in one process step (such as lycopene from tomatoes). During this process, the activity, purity and quality are maintained due to the mild process conditions and the absence of solvents, and the result is a natural, strong and waterbinding food grade fibre.

There is undeniably a trend towards usage of natural ingredients, specifically in the area of natural extraction for colouring agents, fragrances, flavourings and functional ingredients. Unfortunately, these natural ingredients are often too expensive in comparison to synthetic extracts, and thus companies are searching for better and cheaper alternatives.

The technology from Phytonext is able to produce extracts of higher quality at lower production cost, which is ideal for companies seeking a more cost-effective way to produce natural extracts – and also for organisations that are looking at waste streams. Jordi Jongbloed, business development manager of Phytonext, comments, “With respect to the circular economy, more and more companies are looking to add value to waste streams. Phytonext’s extraction technology is a good method for new players in the market that want to take concrete steps towards a circular economy.”