Bühler strengthens pet treats business with new acquisition

The Swiss multination is the new owner of CEREX’s puffing technology to expand its offerings.
Bühler, which sells machinery and manufacturing solutions for various industries, is expanding its pet food offerings by acquiring CEREX technologies.
The group has purchased CEREX’s food “puffing” technology, which creates air-filled treats. The firm will offer the machine to its production customers in pet food and human food alike.
“The integration of this technology into Bühler’s portfolio strengthens our ability to meet the evolving needs of our customers, and fosters continued innovation in recipe development,” says Christoph Vogel, Bühler’s Head of Business Unit Human Nutrition.
Expanding volume
The company markets itself as a comprehensive solution for pet food producers, offering services that range from sourcing raw materials to delivering finished goods.
The puffing technology uses heat and pressure to expand the volume of materials. It can be used on snacks that contain 10-14% water and 65-75% starch. Protein and fat levels can also impact the final result.
Bühler says the partnership will not impact the remainder of CEREX’s operations.
Puffing up profits?
The firm notes its puffers can improve production efficiency while responding to consumer demand for healthier goods. Puffing treats with air increases product volumes and weights without requiring additional raw materials. Puffed products also have lower sugar content than solid foods.
“It therefore supports customers in finding new ways to optimize their processes and maintain profitability, which is crucial for business success,” it says in a statement.
Puffed treats have been successfully marketed in the human snack market, and Bühler expects success in the pet industry as well.
Test drive
While some companies already manufacture puffed treats, Bühler is targeting producers looking to enter this niche market or try new recipes.
The company’s office in the municipality of Uzwil, Switzerland, 187 km northeast of Bern, will host a “state-of-the-art puffing application center” where producers can collaborate with Bühler’s experts to develop puffed products.
Customers will be able to test new recipes at the center starting in April 2025.