Screening of Mixing Process for Special Medical Formula Food Based on Powder Engineering

Abstract

The biggest challenge in the dry production of formula foods for special medical purposes is the uniformity. Products with nonuniform mixing may lead to uneven distribution of nutrients. It is generally accepted that the uniformity coefficient of variation (CV) ≤ 5% between the average nine points selected in the mixing equipment is acceptable. In this study, we investigated the physical properties of raw materials based on powder engineering, and use the mixing uniformity as a standard to determine the quality of the final product and determine its mixing process. The physical properties that significantly impact the mixing process include the particle size distribution, mass fraction, moisture content, and Carr fluidity of raw materials. These are studied based on powder engineering, and their production process and steps are determined. Sodium citrate and other raw materials have a small mass fraction. If they are directly mixed with a large amount of raw and auxiliary materials, this is not conducive to full mixing, and premixing the above raw materials is considered with maltodextrin. After uniform mixing, it is mixed with other raw materials. On this basis, a test plan is designed to screen the mixed process parameters. The CV at different positions in the same tank is used to reflect the uniformity of the distribution of the same nutrient at different positions to determine the end point of the premix. This has significance for guiding the production process research of formula foods for special medical purposes.