Lars Andersson, Head of the newly created Business Unit FPM Ingredients, explains why he does not feel sorry at all for saying "bye-bye" to by-products and how GELITA can help to solve global problems such as dwindling resources and rising pollution.

Mr. Andersson, fats, proteins and minerals – FPM for short – are generated during the production of gelatine. What is so special about these secondary products?

First of all: They are definitely not sec­ondary. Just let me remind you that, with respect to volume, we produce twice the amount of fats, proteins and minerals compared to gelatine. FPM ingredients are full-bodied products that create added value for our customers.

What exactly do you mean by added value and where are these products being used?

The food and pet food markets demand high-quality products. In food applications, our proteins enhance texture; for example, they are already ingredients in hamburgers. In pet food, the high protein content together with excellent digestibility add value to the products. Fat is the most efficient energy contributor in food and animal feed, as well as a very interesting clean fuel.

In Biodiesel e.g., it is one of the best ways to generate a low-carbon footprint. In oleo-chemistry, our fats are split into fatty acids used in, for example, candles or as ingredients in plastics. As a source of phosphorous, our DCP is an important ingredi­ent in animal feed and fertilizers. Possible new technical applications could well be in the fields of anti-corrosion and mold protection.

These ingredients are hidden champions; the potential in each of them is over­whelming. For example, the scar­city of proteins and phosphorous forecasted is a real challenge and will put a new perspective on these products.

Why is GELITA now placing more atten­tion on the marketing of these products?

We know FPM ingredients can add value to our customers' products. And the growing population coupled with dwindling  world-wide resources now shed new light on what formerly used to be merely seen as by-products.

What changes became necessary as a result of the creation of the new Business Unit?

We are right now in the process of reorganizing the Business Unit. We are focusing on prod­uct development and building up part­nerships with our customers. And, with Dr. Dieter Schulz, we have a very compe­tent Product Manager to establish these channels. Besides, we are now steering FPM globally.

Which markets have the biggest poten­tial?

Proteins have definitely the biggest po­tential. We see huge opportunities in the food market; however, a lot of work still has to be done, e. g. obtaining food grade approvals.

GELITA produces gelatine customized to individual requirements. What about FPM Ingredients?

We can customize these products too. For example, we add antioxidants, adjust pH and select qualities to meet custom­er requirements. We also apply stringent controls in fulfilling customer specifications. There will be even more customization in future with different milling grades on offer.

What kind of added value does GELITA offer their clients on top?

We are very much committed to our customers, and that is not just a figure of speech. With just-in-time deliveries and partnerships in product development as well as full quality transparency we add value as a reliable partner. And, last but not least, we have excellent staff to achieve this!

Why is being the Head of FPM Ingredients a really fascinating job?

The sudden “exploded” understanding of the importance and value of our products. Also the great support and feedback from everybody in making this all happen. The huge potential is fascinating! We always need to be ahead of the competition and this is just the way to do it.