Naturex production, toll manufacturing services, custom manufacturing

Major processing phases

Extraction

Like tea infused in hot water, extraction gently separates the targeted molecules by transferring them from the raw material to the extraction liquid.

Purification

Like the gold miner’s pan, the purification process is used to sort molecules according to their affinities, size, and physiochemical properties.

Solid formulation

Just as milk is transformed into powder, the drying process reduces the water content of an active principle.

Liquid formulation

Just as mustard stabilizes the mixture of vinegar and oil in a dressing, we formulate our ingredients to fit your recipes.

Extraction: infusion on an industrial scale

The process of extraction isolates and extracts the major active principles and properties of the plant. After harvesting, drying, and grinding, the plants are immersed in a solvent that demonstrates an affinity with the molecules being extracted. Numerous factors affect the performance and selectivity of the extraction: managing timing, setting the temperature, adjusting the pressure, choosing the solvent. A filtration system separates the solvent and desired compounds from the plant structure. The solvent is then evaporated at low temperature in order to concentrate the active compounds. The resulting crude extract is then purified and may be used as is or formulated to meet specific requirements.

Purification: A highly sophisticated sieve

The purification process sorts the molecules in order to isolate them individually or in groups. Crude extracts are added to a liquid solution which draws the molecules through a purifying device. The molecules move along at different rates according to their physicochemical properties. At the end of the process, identical molecules are sorted into three groups based on their migration rate: the top, middle, and bottom fractions. The purified actives are the molecules contained in the middle fractions. The purification process thus removes undesirable molecules and concentrates the active content.

Drying: preserving natural properties

Drying concentrates active compounds by removing most of the moisture. This process reduces the weight of a solid ingredient, making it easier to handle, and increasing its shelf life. This critical step requires the application of heat, which may alter the natural properties of the molecules. Naturex uses innovative drying methods to preserve the original properties of the actives.

LIQUID FORMULATION: ADAPTING NATURE’S TREASURES TO YOUR APPLICATION

Liquid formulation is divided into several steps with the ultimate goal of incorporating actives into a preparation. Emulsion, suspension and dispersion are just some of the techniques used by Naturex to increase the life of the active and facilitate its incorporation in various applications for stable and homogenous results. This highly technical step requires a detailed knowledge of molecular physical chemistry and mixing techniques. By combining selected tools and preparation recipes, our actives can be incorporated in a countless number of food, cosmetic and health applications.

Production

From nature to application

Uncovering the benefits of nature with innovative technologies

Standard diagram of ingredient production in a plant