Advertise
SD Guthrie International (SDGI), the downstream division of SD Guthrie Berhad, has officially expanded its manufacturing infrastructure in Liverpool, UK, through the launch of a new enzymatic interesterification (EIE) facility. This strategic investment marks a significant step in the company's efforts to provide high-value, tailored fat solutions to the food industry.
The expansion features the installation of two independent EIE production lines, each capable of producing up to 20,000 tonnes annually. Supporting this increased capacity, the site has been upgraded with new storage tanks, a dedicated loading bay, a weighbridge, and an effluent treatment plant to ensure operational efficiency and environmental compliance.
Enzymatic interesterification represents a sophisticated technology that uses enzymes to selectively rearrange fatty acids within a fat structure. This process allows for the creation of fats with specific functional characteristics. Unlike traditional chemical interesterification, the enzyme-based process at the Liverpool site operates under milder conditions and eliminates the need for post-treatment, significantly streamlining the manufacturing workflow.
According to SDGI, the adoption of EIE technology enhances process efficiency while reducing effluent generation and the overall environmental footprint of the production cycle. Richard Town, Chief Operations Officer for Manufacturing at SDGI, emphasized that the facility would allow for the development of customized palm-based solutions across various food categories.
Key applications for these specialty fats include margarines and spreads that require specific spreadability and melting profiles, bakery fats necessitating structure and consistent aeration, and confectionery fillings where stability and mouthfeel are paramount. The facility will also cater to bespoke specialty fat requirements from food manufacturers seeking unique performance attributes.
Mohd Haris Mohd Arshad, President and Group Chief Executive Officer of SD Guthrie, stated that the new facility focuses on delivering 'more precision and more possibilities' for customers. He noted that the investment aligns with the company's 'Beyond Zero' sustainability framework, enabling the firm to capture higher value throughout the palm oil value chain while meeting evolving market demands.
Furthermore, the Liverpool expansion strengthens SDGI's capacity to serve the UK market locally, potentially reducing the carbon footprint associated with long-distance logistics. This development is a core component of SD Guthrie's broader strategy to fortify its downstream business through technological innovation and the production of higher-value derivatives.
Source: FoodBev Media