Swiss technology group Bühler has acquired advanced puffing technology from CEREX to enhance its offerings for food, petfood, and feed applications. The acquisition, announced on 16 January, 2025, broadens Bühler’s product range and aims to meet the rising demand for healthier, diverse food options.
The puffing technology, originally developed by CEREX, is versatile and applicable to a wide range of products, including snacks, cereals, confectionery, and dairy items. The technology works by using heat and pressure to expand raw materials, making them lighter, crispier, and easier to digest. It also improves shelf life and can be used to enrich products with additional nutrients like vitamins and proteins.
Christoph Vogel, Head of Business Unit Human Nutrition at Bühler, noted that the technology enhances the company’s ability to innovate in cereal and snack production. He highlighted that it offers new recipe possibilities and improved production efficiency. The acquisition comes as the demand for ready-to-eat snacks, particularly plant-based options, continues to rise. The global ready-to-eat snack market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.7% from 2024 to 2031.
The technology is also designed to help businesses reduce production costs by increasing yield, improving energy efficiency, and lowering sugar content. Bühler’s system operates at 50% lower energy consumption compared to similar technologies, significantly boosting sustainability and efficiency.
In addition to the acquisition, Bühler will open an Application & Training Center in Uzwil, Switzerland, in April 2025. The center will allow customers to test new recipes and processes using the puffing technology.
The acquisition strengthens Bühler’s position in the cereal and snack markets while allowing CEREX to maintain its focus on non-food and non-feed application.