Our Coordinator, IDENER successfully installed High-Efficiency Microwave Drying System at CTAQUA.

This week marks a significant achievement for the NOVAFOODIES EU project. IDENER, NOVAFOODIES Coordinator, successfully installed a high-efficiency microwave-based drying system at the facilities of CTAQUA – Centro Tecnológico de Acuicultura in Spain. This installation initiates the final validation campaign for algae processing, a crucial step toward advancing sustainable food technologies.

Drying algae is a critical process in producing high-quality, sustainable ingredients. Traditional methods, such as convection ovens, typically require up to two days to complete the drying cycle. Our newly installed system represents a paradigm shift in industrial drying efficiency:

• Up to 8 kg of wet algae dried in just 2 hours
• Reduction from 48 hours to 2 hours compared to conventional methods
• Significant decrease in energy consumption, lowering the carbon footprint

This breakthrough not only accelerates production but also reduces operational costs and supports decarbonisation goals in the food industry. The benefits of this technology extend far beyond the scope of the NOVAFOODIES project. Its scalability makes it suitable for diverse biomass drying applications, opening new opportunities for innovation in sustainable food systems across Europe and beyond.

By improving efficiency and reducing environmental impact, this solution strengthens the competitiveness of EU-produced algae in global markets. It is a tangible example of how research and innovation can deliver practical solutions to meet the growing demand for sustainable food sources.

Stay tuned for more updates on NOVAFOODIES and follow us on LinkedIn, X and IG!