Bühler acquires CEREX puffing technology to revolutionise food, feed industries  

SWITZERLAND – Bühler, the renowned Swiss technology group, has enhanced its product portfolio by acquiring cutting-edge puffing technology from CEREX, a Swiss manufacturer specialising in food, feed, and non-food machinery. 

This strategic acquisition marks a significant step for Bühler, enabling it to meet the rising demand for healthier, more diverse food, pet food, and feed options while addressing key industry challenges like production efficiency and sustainability.  

The newly acquired puffing technology, initially developed by CEREX, is a hydrothermal process that uses heat and pressure to expand raw materials such as grains. 

It offers a host of advantages, including increased product volume and porosity, improved digestibility, extended shelf life, and enhanced nutritional potential. 

This innovative approach supports the creation of lightweight, crunchy, and nutrient-enriched products for human and animal consumption.  

Christoph Vogel, Head of the Business Unit of Human Nutrition at Bühler, expressed optimism about the potential impact of the technology. 

The puffing process is a game-changer in cereal and snack production, enabling various recipe possibilities, including coatings and fillers across various product categories. This acquisition strengthens our ability to meet the evolving needs of our customers, and fosters continued innovation,” he said.  

Benefits for the feed industry  

For the animal feed sector, Bühler’s adoption of this technology is poised to deliver significant benefits. 

Puffed feed products, which are lighter and more digestible, align with growing consumer and regulatory demands for sustainable and efficient livestock nutrition. 

Furthermore, the process enables feed producers to enrich their products with essential nutrients, vitamins, or proteins, ensuring optimal animal health and productivity.  

The energy-efficient design of the puffing system is another major advantage. Bühler’s technology consumes 50% less energy than comparable systems, using only 60 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per 100 kilograms of product compared to the typical 120 kWh. 

This reduces operating costs and aligns with Bühler’s commitment to sustainability while ensuring maximum yields of over 95%.  

The acquisition comes at a pivotal moment for global food and feed markets. The demand for ready-to-eat snacks, cereals, and plant-based alternatives has surged, with the global snack market projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.7% between 2024 and 2031. 

In the pet food sector, puffed ingredients can provide high nutritional value while improving digestibility, making them an attractive option for pet owners seeking healthier alternatives.  

Bühler is also investing in further innovation and customer collaboration. In April 2025, the company will inaugurate an Application & Training Center at its headquarters in Uzwil, Switzerland

This state-of-the-art facility will allow customers to test new recipes and processes using puffing technology, fostering a culture of innovation and enabling them to adapt to changing market demands.  

Christoph Vogel emphasised Bühler’s forward-thinking approach: “By incorporating advanced puffing technology, we are confirming our commitment to innovation, addressing both current market demands and anticipating future consumer trends. We look forward to working closely with our customers to integrate this solution into their operations and unlock its full potential.”  

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