Palm oil solutions provider SD Guthrie International (SDGI) has moved to extend its manufacturing capabilities in Liverpool, UK, through investment in a new Enzymatic Interesterification (EIE) line, reports Neill Barston.

As the company noted, the facility features two independent EIE production systems, each with a capacity of up to 20,000 tonnes, supported by new storage tanks, a loading bay, weighbridge and effluent treatment plant.

Moreover, as the company observed, EIE is a process that uses enzymes to selectively rearrange fatty acids within a fat structure. Interesterification can be carried out using either chemical or enzymatic methods, with the facility utilising an enzyme-based process.

The expansion reinforces Guthrie’s focus on maximising the versatility of palm-based oils and fats, including customers across the food and drink sector, including in confectionery and snacking operations.

Notably, the business confirmed that the new production line has been designed to operate under milder processing conditions while eliminating the need for post-treatment, helping to improve process efficiency and reduce effluent generation and overall environmental impact.

Richard Town, Chief Operations Officer (Manufacturing) of SDGI, commented that the plant would enable the Company to deliver tailored palm-based fat solutions with greater precision

He said: “This is across a wide range of applications. These include margarines and spreads requiring smoothness, spreadability and controlled melting; bakery fats requiring structure, aeration and consistent performance; biscuit fillings and confectionery requiring stability, controlled melting and desired mouthfeel; and specialty fats designed for customised applications.

“This expanded capability strengthens our ability to respond to customers’ evolving needs, while enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of our manufacturing operations.”

For his part, Mohd Haris Mohd Arshad, President & Group Chief Executive Officer of Guthrie, said the Company’s strength lies in its presence across the palm oil value chain, from upstream and midstream to downstream.

He remarked: “Investments like this allow us to build on that integrated model by transforming the palm oil we produce into higher-value, specialised solutions for our customers. The new EIE facility is about more precision and more possibilities. More precision in how we develop products with specific functional characteristics, and more possibilities to help our customers meet evolving market demands.

“At the same time, it strengthens our downstream capabilities, supports our sustainability ambitions under our “Beyond Zero” framework and enables us to capture greater value across the chain while responding more effectively to customer needs.”