Patent ID: 6790288
Filing Date: 2004-09-14
Classification: A23C,C13B,C13K

Abstract:
A process for evaporative concentration and crystallization of a viscous lactose-containing aqueous liquid, comprising:(a) introducing the lactose-containing aqueous liquid having a dry solids content of 40-75% by weight into a zone and therein subjecting it to the following simultaneous measures; (i) progressive heating at a temperature above 40Â° C. but below the maximum temperature for crystallization of &agr;-lactose monohydrate from the liquid; (ii) removal of vapour evaporated from the liquid; and (iii) mechanical agitation able to provide a crystallization promoting decrease of the viscosity of the liquid with crystals formed and suspended therein; to progressively concentrate and simultaneously crystallize the agitated liquid, and(b) recovering the resulting slurry from said zone at a total solids content above 75% for cooling and optional disintegration and further drying.