Edgecumbe innovation unlocks hidden value for Fonterra

2 MINUTE READ

An innovative application of common dairy technology is helping Fonterra make savings from waste.

The upgrade underway at Fonterra’s Edgecumbe site will allow Fonterra to capture lactose that was previously unable to be extracted from the site’s waste stream by creatively applying existing filtration technology.

While the project will cost $8 million, it will double the amount of lactose the site is able to recover in a day, reducing Fonterra’s reliance on imported lactose from overseas suppliers and delivering significant and ongoing cost savings.

Fonterra Director New Zealand Manufacturing, Mark Leslie says the upgrade will play a vital role in the Co-operative’s ability to provide high quality milk powder to the world.

“Lactose is used mainly in standardising milk powder, and the additional volumes of lactose we’re now able to capture will be essential in supplying the new dryer opening soon in Lichfield – one of our most strategically important builds.”

“We are continually looking for ways to get the most out of our milk and this is another good example. We have found a creative way to use existing technology that will bring great results, save us cash and deliver real value for our farmers.”

“Lactose is used mainly in standardising milk powder, and the additional volumes of lactose we’re now able to capture will be essential in supplying the new dryer opening soon in Lichfield – one of our most strategically important builds.”

“We are continually looking for ways to get the most out of our milk and this is another good example. We have found a creative way to use existing technology that will bring great results, save us cash and deliver real value for our farmers.”