Strategic Business Acquisition in the Snacks Manufacturing Sector for Bühler
Bühler, a Swiss technology business, has recently purchased CEREX's revolutionary puffing technology. In addition to expanding Bühler's product line and offering better ways to meet the growing need for a wider variety of healthier food options, this strategic acquisition makes the most of the business's potential to benefit customers.
“The puffing process is a game-changer in how we approach […] snack production, offering a broad range of recipe possibilities, including coatings and fillers across many product categories. The integration of this technology into Bühler’s portfolio strengthens our ability to meet the evolving needs of our customers and fosters continued innovation in recipe development,” Christoph Vogel, Head of Business Unit Human Nutrition at Bühler, recently mentioned.
Technology Explained
The hydrothermal process of puffing greatly increases the volume of raw materials by applying pressure and heat. Protein and fat levels also have an impact on the process, which requires the material to include 10–14% water and 65-75% starch. Puffed goods provide several benefits. They are lighter and crispier due to their higher volume and porosity, a widely desired feature for cereals and snacks.
Additionally, by reducing moisture content and minimizing spoiling, the puffing process increases shelf life and improves digestibility by breaking down starches. Because the product is easily enhanced with proteins, vitamins, or minerals, it also increases nutritional potential.
Maximum Yield, More Energy Efficiency
The new acquisition will not only add value to Bühler’s offerings but also contribute to the production efficiency and sustainability of customers’ plants. The system operates with remarkable energy efficiency, consuming 50% less energy compared to similar systems – it utilizes 60 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per 100 kilograms (kg) of product as opposed to 120 kWh. Additionally, it ensures a stable and industrial-grade puffing process compliant with the strictest food safety regulations.
In April 2025, Bühler will open an Application & Training Center at its headquarters in Uzwil, Switzerland, focused on puffing technology.
“By incorporating advanced puffing technology, we are confirming our commitment to innovation, addressing both current market demands and anticipating future consumer trends. Now, we are ready to discuss with our customers the exceptional opportunities for integrating this solution into their plants,” Christoph Vogel added.
The collaboration with CEREX on puffing technology strengthens Bühler’s ability to provide innovative solutions in the cereal and snacks market while not impacting CEREX’s other services, machine portfolio, or operations.
The demand for extruded snacks (e.g. the ones made from extruding or pressing a dough made from dehydrated potato flour), and others among the working population and younger generations – has increased in recent years. The global ready-to-eat snack market size is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.7% from 2024 to 2031. Puffing technology can support customers in quickly adapting to these emerging consumer trends.
