Case Study:

How A Leading South American Mill Increased Yield and Absorption with volMAX 250 NOAA

Challenge:

A major flour mill in South America was facing increasing pressure to optimize costs without compromising flour quality or performance. Like most mills in the region, it relies on imported wheat—mainly high-protein varieties from Canada and the U.S., such as CWRS and HRW—making raw material costs a constant challenge. Additionally, Colombia is preparing to ban the use of azodicarbonamide (ADA), prompting producers to seek clean-label alternatives that deliver comparable dough strength and baking performance

Solution:

The mill partnered with our team to trial volMAX 250 NOAA, a powerful enzyme solution designed to improve dough performance even when using lower-protein wheat. The objective was to maintain or improve volume and dough tolerance while reducing costs. Engrain achieved this by making adjustments to grists and other additives.

During the trial,  the customer mixed Canadian with high-protein and American with medium protein (80/20 and 70/30 CWRS/American), and a low dosage of volMAX (70 ppm or 3.5 g per 50 kg of flour). By carefully adjusting these raw materials, the team achieved optimal performance without over-dosing.

Results:

• Increased yield and water absorption: The volMAX formulation enabled higher water absorption, contributing to greater yield and improved cost efficiency.
• Strong dough structure: The product delivered excellent results by strengthening the gluten network and improving volume, even when using medium- or low-protein wheat.
• Extended shelf life: The same customer is conducting trials with hydroMALT to further extend bread shelf life and increase flour performance.
• Operational efficiency: Since implementation, the mill reports minimal support calls from bakeries—production remains stable and trouble-free.
• Regulatory readiness: Switching to volMAX has allowed the mill to move away from using ADA, staying ahead of upcoming regulatory changes.

Conclusion:

While volMAX may appear more expensive per kilogram, its high effectiveness at low dosages—combined with the ability to reduce or replace other additives—makes it a cost-effective and reliable solution. For mills seeking consistency, clean-label compliance, and improved profitability, volMAX 250 NOAA represents a powerful competitive advantage.