Columbia PhytoTechnology, an innovator in the field of nutritional ingredients located in Carson, Wash., is working with researcher Dr. Kerry Ringer of the Washington State University, Prosser Irrigated Agricultural Research and Extension Center to develop an innovative dehydration technology for nutraceutical and food ingredients.
WSU received $45,334 in Phase I Research and Technology Development funding from Washington Technology Center for the project titled "Radiant Zone Drying: Energy Efficient, Economical, and High Quality Liquid Drying Technology for Nutraceutical and Food Ingredients."
Powders made from fruits, vegetables and plant extracts are a rapidly growing market as consumers become more health conscious and focused on the actual nutrients they ingest. However, the food and nutrition industries and, hence, consumers, have very few choices in either high-quality, economical powders or dehydration technologies. In order to provide these types of products to the industry, an advance in drying technology is required.
In this Phase I project, Columbia PhytoTechnology and Dr. Ringer will optimize the use of Columbia's Radiant Zone Drying technology for commercial production. This patented technology uses radiant heat, modulated through various heat zones to remove water from fruit, vegetable and plant juices, purees and extracts. The ability to control temperature through the various zones ensures the retention of product nutrients. This innovation seeks to provide affordable, nutrient rich products through an efficient and economical commercial scale process.
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"The Radiant Zone Drying Technology is just one of the many innovations developed by Columbia PhytoTechnology since it was founded in 2000. I am proud to see such cutting-edge research and development taking place in the 15th Legislative District."
State Sen. Jim Honeyford, (R-Sunnyside)
"This is an exciting example of the growing economic potential of the Columbia Gorge. It's applied research that's actually going to help meet a rapidly emerging consumer demand. I'm glad the state can play a part in making this technology successful."
State Rep. Bruce Chandler, (R-Granger)
"It’s great to see a local business benefit through this opportunity. It allows Columbia PhytoTechnology to grow as a company, which will contribute to our local and state economy. This will provide economic benefit to our region’s agricultural industry. The grant will also provide options for health-conscious consumers seeking quality food ingredients."
State Rep. Dan Newhouse, (R-Sunnyside)
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