Introduction
Fluidized bed roasting involves the roasting of a variety of nuts and seeds in order to improve their flavor and extend their shelf life. It is a process which provides many benefits to those who manufacture and sell these tasty treats. It allows the product to be more efficiently roasted while also aiding in the reduction of contamination and improving flavor.
The Process
Fluidized bed roasting is a process in which a bed of granular materials are heated and suspended in air, typically at a temperature range between 350 to 450°F (176 to 232°C). The air flow is then regulated to cause a “fluidization” of the bed of materials which allows for the uniform heating of the nut or seed product and efficient removal of smoke and gasses produced from the roasting process.
Fluidized bed roasting typically produces a more consistent flatness of roast, increased roast color and uniform flavor in the nuts and seeds. The process also eliminates contamination which may occur with other processes. Ultimately, the result is a product which can be used in food manufacturing processes and applications with improved taste, quality, and longer shelf life.
Benefits
There are numerous benefits associated with fluidized bed roasting for those who manufacture and process nuts and seeds. These benefits include:
1. Increased Efficiency – Since the heating process and driving force behind the fluidization is provided by a fan or blower and temperature is maintained by a thermal control device, the process ends up being very efficient overall. This is partially due to the fact that the nuts and seeds are tumbled gently in the circulating air, causing the roasting process to happen much more evenly and consistently.
2. Improved Flavor – The uniform heating of the nuts or seeds provided by fluidized bed roasting methods produce a roasting quality which helps to improve the flavor of the final product. It also results in a color uniformity of the roasted products which leads to improved flavor and appearance.
3. Improved Quality – Relatively even roasting and smoke/gasses elimination ultimately lead to improved quality of the final product. This equates to a product which is longer lasting and has a longer shelf life.
4. Reduced Contamination – Fluidized bed roasting processes make use of isolation layers to ensure that roasting contaminates are not carried out of the process. This improves the safety and shelf life of the nut or seed product.
Conclusion
The process of fluidized bed roasting offers a wealth of benefits for those involved in the manufacture and processing of nuts and seeds. The process allows for improved quality, flavor, and shelf life of the product with minimal contamination. Ultimately, the process serves to benefit the consumer with better tasting, longer lasting treats.
