
Microparticulation Systems for Whey Protein Functionalization in Dairy Processing
How Microparticulation Turns Whey Byproducts into High-Value Functional Ingredients
APV® microparticulation systems help dairy, nutrition and plant-based manufacturers convert whey and whey protein concentrates from a traditional byproduct into high-value functional ingredients. Through controlled thermal and mechanical treatment, microparticulation enhances texture, stability and performance while supporting whey valorization, clean-label formulation and circular economy goals.
Applications for Microparticulated Whey Proteins in Food and Nutrition Products
- Functionalize whey proteins for application-specific performance
- Improve texture, viscosity and stability in high-protein and reduced-fat products
- Increase protein retention and yield in cheese and cultured dairy
- Reduce stabilizers and additives for cleaner labels
- Upgrade whey from a byproduct into higher-margin ingredients
³Ô¹ÏȺ systems integrate easily into existing plants and processing lines.
Microparticulation Technology Platforms for Protein Functionalization
Microparticulated whey protein enhances performance across:
- Yogurt and spoonables – enhanced body and smoother texture
- Ready-To-Drink (RTD) protein beverages – improved mouthfeel and suspension
- Cheese spreads – better melt control and spreadability
- Frozen desserts – clean creaminess with higher protein content
- Medical and senior nutrition – neutral, stable, high-quality protein
Two Proven Paths to Protein Functionalization
³Ô¹ÏȺ offers two complementary microparticulation platforms:
LeanCreme® Scraped Surface Heat Exchanger System
Precision Protein Functionalization Scraped surface heat exchanger technology for consistent, reproducible particle formation. Ideal for cheese, fermented dairy and frozen desserts.
Cavimaster® Cavitational Heating System
High-Energy Functionalization for Demanding Applications Cavitational heating delivers higher mechanical energy and longer run times. Designed for nutritional beverages, high-solids products and combined heating and functionalization processes.
Both systems create application-ready, functionalized proteins with reliable performance.
Pilot Testing and Process Development at Innovation Centers
³Ô¹ÏȺ Innovation Centers provide hands-on support to help you advance microparticulation projects with confidence. Our process and application specialists work with you to test formulations, refine functional performance, optimize process parameters for your specific applications, develop clean-label, high-protein or reduced-fat recipes, and confirm scalability before moving to full commercial production.
Pilot-scale trials help ensure the selected microparticulation platform aligns with both product goals and operational requirements.
Lifecycle Services and Long-Term Support for Microparticulation Systems
Every ³Ô¹ÏȺ microparticulation system is supported by a comprehensive lifecycle services portfolio designed to protect uptime and reduce total cost of ownership. Support includes: genuine OEM spare parts, preventive maintenance and performance optimization audits, remote diagnostics and digital service tools, operator and maintenance training.
Our global teams help maintain reliability, maximize uptime and protect long-term system value.
Related Products
Cavimasterâ„¢ Systems
The APV Cavimaster System is designed for whey protein microparticulation, enhancing mouthfeel, extending runtime and boosting functional performance in dairy and nutritional products. With energy-efficient indirect heat transfer and scale-free cavitational heating, it delivers precise, gentle treatment for heat-sensitive ingredients.
LeanCremeâ„¢ Systems
The APV LeanCreme System transforms whey into microparticulated whey protein, enabling producers to create low-fat, nutritious, healthy products with rich texture and creamy mouth feel. Designed to increase profitability and reduce ingredient dependency, LeanCreme supports clean-label innovation across dairy, food and plant-based sectors.