Gelatin Production Process

Gelatin is a purified protein, derived from the selective hydrolysis of collagen. Collagen forms the largest organic component of the bones and skins of mammals.  There are two different production methods, the acid process (A Type) and the alkaline process (B Type).

The acid process (A-type gelatin)

In this process, the bones or skins are treated in a vessel containing a dilute solution of acid for a predetermined period of time.  Afterwards, the acid is washed out with cold water.

The alkaline process (B-type gelatin)

Traditionally in this process, the demineralised bones are placed in liming pits and soaked in a lime suspension for a period of 60 days.  Alternatively, for the hides, a caustic soda solution is used over a shorter period of time.  The lime suspension is replaced periodically.  At the end of this treatment, the raw material is washed thoroughly to remove any residual lime.

Extracting, purifying and drying gelatin

The same extraction method is used for both A- and B- type processes.  Extraction is carried out using water at controlled temperatures.  The dilute gelatin solution from the extraction process is filtered, demineralised and concentrated in multiple-effect vacuum evaporators.  The concentrated solution sterilised, chilled and extruded to form gelatin noodles. These pass through a drying tunnel where they are dried with purified air.  The final dry extraction is ground and then tested for bacteriological quality, gel strength, viscosity and other parameters.

Different extractions are ground and blended into a final lot to ensure that the gelatin meets our customers' specifications.  The final product is subject to Quality Assurance testing of several different parameters before being released for delivery to the customer.