Technical evaluation study of dried beef powder

Summary

Background

There is a worldwide demand for meat based flavourings, extracts and nutraceuticals and a global under supply of quality products. Major health issues such as Avian Flu and SARS threaten the value of multinational brands and Australia is uniquely positioned to supply the safe, clean and green products required. This is reinforced by Australia's world's best traceability system overseen by AQIS (Australian Quarantine Inspection Service). The food market offers an excellent opportunity for investment since, regardless of economic conditions, food remains a necessity and this ensures a constant demand for Australia's products. The cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications of such products are similarly an opportunity for investment given the aging population who require ongoing medication and are also increasingly concerned with maintaining a youthful appearance.

Research (early)

In 1993 under project DAV.090, a technical evaluation study of dried beef powder was undertaken.At that time, powders had been based on vegetable extracts. The project covered a preliminary study into the technologies used in Australia to produce dried meat powder and to comment on whether investment by MRC (predecessor of MLA) was warranted to develop or nurture any of these.

Research (recent)

Forefront Ingredients Ltd undertook a project with MLA to develop a modular meat and bone stock production technology designed to produce high quality products for the domestic and export markets. The process involved the extraction of protein material from both red meat and bones to produce valuable high quality flavourings and use by-products, such as sheep placenta, to produce cosmetic/nutraceutical ingredients.

In the course of the project, beef extract and sheep placenta products were manufactured on a pilot scale and then validated in the market with acceptance of the product by end customers.

Outcomes

Processes were developed for producing beef extract and bone stock for use as food ingredients.
Processes were demonstrated at 1,000L scale.
A process was developed for the manufacture of dried placental extract.
Market feedback on trial samples showed the products to be commercially viable.
A modular plant was designed for beef and placenta extract production.
The project was, by mutual agreement, terminated due to difficulties sourcing partner funds for the final stage of the project.