Heat treatment of fat

Fat processing is an important process for the animal by-products industry, converting raw animal fat into usable tallow, lard and other products. The process involves several steps and techniques to ensure that the final product meets industry standards and consumer expectations. Through the wet and dry rendering methods, animal fats are produced for a wide range of applications. When it comes to the heat treatment of fats, we at PEPITO know our stuff. We comply with all EU regulations and the results are products that meet the highest standards for industrial use. Our PEPITO guide describes in detail the rendering process, its types and applications, as well as regulatory requirements in the European Union.

Types of fat processing

There are two main methods: wet and dry.

Rendering – wet method:

• It involves cooking animal tissues in water or steam at temperatures usually between 100 and 120 °C.

• The heat causes the fat to separate from the tissues, bringing the fat to the surface, where it can be collected.

• It produces better quality fat, as it minimizes oxidation and pigment contamination.

Rendering – dry method:

• Adipose tissues are heated without the addition of water, usually at higher temperatures between 120 and 150 °C.

• This process can lead to darker fats due to oxidation, there can also be more impurities in play.

• This method is faster, which is its advantage – it is often used for the production of lower quality fats.

Steps in heat treatment of fats

1. Preparation of raw materials: The collected animal tissues – including fat, bones and viscera – are inspected and sorted. The material is then chopped into smaller pieces for more efficient fat extraction.

2. Cooking: Depending on the chosen method (wet or dry), the materials are heated in large containers. During this step, the fat is melted and separated from the solid tissues.

3. Separation: The melted fat is separated from solid residues and water (in wet rendering). This is usually done by centrifugation or in settling tanks.

4. Refinement and purification: The separated fat undergoes further refinement to remove impurities, moisture and unsaponifiable matter. Techniques include filtration, refining and bleaching.

5. Storage and handling: The pure fat is stored in clean, temperature-controlled tanks to prevent rancidity. Correct handling and storage are essential to maintain the quality and shelf life of the fat.

Applications of rendered fats, such as

• Soaps and personal care: Tallow is a main ingredient in soap making, providing hardness and a creamy lather. It is used in cosmetics for its excellent emollient properties – especially in skin care products.

• Industrial applications: Rendered fats are used in the production of biodiesel, a renewable energy source. But they are also used in the production of candles, lubricants and animal feed.

Quality control and regulations

Quality control is essential in the rendering process in order for the final product to meet industry standards. The EU enforces very strict regulations on this process:

• Traceability: Ensuring that all raw materials can be traced back to their origin.

• Hygiene: Following strict hygiene procedures to prevent contamination.

• Testing: Regular testing of free fatty acids, moisture content, impurities and peroxide values to ensure product quality.

Positive environmental impact

The fat processing process has a positive impact on the environment – it reduces waste by converting animal by-products into valuable materials. This minimizes the use of landfills and complies with the principles of the circular economy. The production of biodiesel from rendered fats also helps reduce fossil fuel dependence and promotes sustainability.