New CookEX Process system for alginate sausage production

Handtmann, Metalquimia and Hybricol launch new CookEX Process® system for co-extrusion and thermal treatment of sausages with alginate casing

Handtmann Processing, in collaboration with Metalquimia and Hybricol, has launched CookEX Process® technology, an innovative, fully automated and continuous solution designed to accelerate the co-extrusion and cooking of sausages with alginate casings. The CookEX solution integrates filling, co-extrusion, pre-drying, and thermal treatment into a continuous production process. It stands out for its high output capacity, energy efficiency, and versatility across a wide range of recipes and formats. An advanced air treatment system further minimizes weight loss, increases yield, and ensures consistent product homogeneity and quality.

The solution represents a significant advancement in industrial sausage production. It combines the strengths of three specialized technologies into one fully integrated approach, utilizing Hybricol’s alginate gels for precise casing formation, applying them within Handtmann’s ConPro co-extrusion systems, and incorporating drying and cooking via Metalquimia’s QDSausage® technology. The result is a seamless, high-performance process enabling continuous, accelerated sausage production.

This integrated concept delivers consistently high product quality with excellent flavor and texture while achieving output rates of up to 1,200 pieces per minute. In addition, the system offers the option to apply liquid smoke at the beginning of production. Horizontal processing prevents belt marks and ensures uniformity in weight and length, while enabling faster achievement of target color and core temperature. Operational efficiency is further enhanced through reduced weight loss, supported by Metalquimia’s QDSausage® technology. Handtmann’s ConPro system enables quick and precise adjustment of product length and caliber, while Hybricol’s alginate casing gel ensures firm and stable product formation throughout the process. The fully automated setup minimizes manual intervention, ensuring uninterrupted production and high process reliability. Enhanced hygiene standards and extended shelf life further contribute to overall product quality.

Designed for maximum flexibility, CookEX Process® is suitable for a wide range of applications, including meat, fish, vegan alternatives and vegetable-based products, as well as pet food. Its technological versatility opens up new opportunities for product innovation and design, enabling manufacturers to respond quickly to evolving market demands.

With low energy consumption and reduced CO₂ emissions compared to conventional systems, CookEX Process® also supports more sustainable production. By seamlessly combining three process stages, from alginate application to a packaging-ready end product, it delivers a well-balanced combination of high productivity, full automation, efficiency, sustainability, and product quality.