Expansion of the Food Pilot with innovative devices that can also be used on a small scale for processing (protein-rich) biomass. 

Innolab is an ERDF investment project for the expansion of the Food Pilot Living Lab with small-scale equipment that, in combination with the existing pilot units in the Food Pilot, can be used to simulate the processing of various raw materials into new end products. For certain applications and specifically for (new) protein-rich raw materials, there is a need for smaller scales in the exploratory phase. The devices in this investment project will therefore be suitable for use with smaller quantities of starting material (0.5-5 kg). 

Specifically, this project will invest in small-scale equipment for the washing, cutting, grinding, pre-treatment, separation, drying and shaping of (protein-rich) raw materials. This therefore includes, on the one hand, steps for the pre-treatment of raw materials and, on the other hand, steps leading to product development. 

The project addresses several subsectors of the food sector. The meat, (gluten-free) bakery, dairy, vegetables, fruit & potato and prepared meals sectors are facing challenges in the context of the raw material/protein transition and diversification. The infrastructure is highly relevant for companies looking for small-scale and innovative equipment to simulate and test processing in order to produce a quality product in relatively small quantities, rapidly and for a limited cost. 

Project partners

The project is coordinated by ILVO and Flanders' FOOD and is realised with the support of Europe and the Province of East Flanders. 

Flanders' FOOD logo
ILVO

Contactpersoon

Lore Knaepen
innovation manager