Facility and Capabilities

The Thermal Processing Lab is located in the Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering in Seaton Hall. Its mission is to educate food processors, evaluate larger-scale food formulations, and provide first-hand experience with typical processing equipment. It is also a research and teaching facility for food engineering and related disciplines.

In its role as a pilot plant, the Thermal Processing Lab offers processors an opportunity to:

• Develop new products;
• Test thermal processes;
• Scale up operations; and
• Run market test-size batches.

The Thermal Processing Lab allows operators to process their products from the raw stage through to the packaged, finished stage, and affords them a less-expensive opportunity to test their products and processing methods before making large investments. Additionally, Extension specialists are available to provide technical assistance on value-added products.

Scheduling of the Thermal Processing Lab is on a first come, first served basis. As part of K-State Research and Extension, the Lab does not compete with other processing facilities, and charges a nominal fee to partly cover the costs for processing and equipment use. Facility tours and office consultations are available.

Equipment/Instruments