Study on Electric Extraction & Drying for Upscaling and Pilot Preparation

Publieke samenvatting / Public summary

Aanleiding
Cano-ela has developed and patented a fully electric, solvent-free process that fractionates whole rapeseed into three food-grade ingredients, CanoCream (oleosome emulsion), CanoSoluble (protein–polysaccharide) and CanoFiber, thereby replacing hexane-based extraction and maximising seed valorisation. The process has been validated at laboratory scale; the challenge is to scale to a hygienic, energy-efficient pilot plant and verify techno-economics and compliance under semi-industrial conditions. The SEED-UPP study addresses this by preparing a decision-ready package (TEA + FEED) for a first pilot facility in Wageningen.

Doelstelling
The study aims to determine whether Cano-ela's lab-proven process can be scaled up into a fully electric, food-grade pilot installation that is technically feasible, economically viable and compliant with European food safety standards. To achieve this, the study will deliver a decision-ready techno-economic analysis (TEA) and a front-end engineering design (FEED) package, including process flow diagrams, mass and energy balances, cost scenarios and risk assessments. In this way, the project generates the knowledge required for a Final Investment Decision (FID). The study also contributes directly to the objectives of the TSE program line 1. By replacing gas-fired drying with electric alternatives, CO2 emissions in food processing can be reduced by up to 80–90% at unit operation level. This positions the technology as a strong enabler of cost-effective industrial electrification and climate targets.

Korte omschrijving
The study combines technical, economic, regulatory and sustainability assessments into one integrated feasibility process. Core activities include translating laboratory results into scalable process designs, evaluating equipment options, modelling energy and utility demands, and developing cost estimates for investment and operation. In parallel, the project will identify relevant food safety and regulatory requirements, assess intellectual property and legal aspects, and quantify potential CO2 savings compared to conventional benchmarks. Only limited experimental testing will be conducted, focused on drying behaviour, as most inputs are derived from modelling and supplier data.

Resultaat
The study will result in a validated techno-economic analysis (TEA) with capital and operational cost estimates, a front-end engineering design (FEED) package with scalable process design and utility specifications, and a regulatory and risk assessment that ensures compliance and robustness. In addition, it will deliver quantified CO2 reduction potential and a clear investment case for the pilot facility. The final outcome is a decision-ready package that enables Cano-ela to proceed towards a FID (Final Investment Decision) for the construction and commissioning of a first-of-kind, fully electric pilot plant for rapeseed ingredients. The intended follow-up project and market trajectory are outlined in Chapter 5 of this proposal.

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