Bühler unveils energy-efficient solution for precision confectionery production

Bühler has launched a processing line combining mixing and grinding technologies to deliver precision fineness, consistent quality, flexible production capacity, and high energy efficiency in chocolate and confectionery production.

The CompactMix enables efficient manufacturing of confectionery masses for spreads, fillings, and other applications, from soft praline centers to coatings for snack bars and ice cream.

The Swiss technology company says the global increase in demand for on-the-go products, such as filled biscuits, wafers, and snack bars, requires production systems that offer the flexibility to handle a wide range of recipes.

Its latest solution combines the ShearMix mixing system with a spiral agitator for fast and uniform mixing, and the Aurora ball mill to reduce particle size. This combination ensures optimal mixing and refining performance, forming the basis for CompactMix’s “exceptional product consistency.”

The system delivers uniform textures with particle sizes below 20 microns, resulting in a smooth mouthfeel. It also handles low-fat to high-fat recipes, giving producers complete flexibility in chocolate mass production while consuming up to 30% less energy than conventional models.

The solution also enables fast product changeovers with minimal waste and cleaning time under two hours. Its hygienic, fully enclosed design supports global food safety standards, and its modular scalability — from 400 kg/h to 3000 kg/h — makes it suitable for small-scale and industrial production.

CompactMix is equipped with digital solutions, giving manufacturers full control over production. Real-time monitoring, recipe management, and smart control features optimize consistency, reduce waste, and ensure every batch meets the desired fineness and taste profile.

“CompactMix gives manufacturers the freedom to craft premium chocolate spreads, fillings, and coatings with exceptional quality and consistency. Its flexible design supports a wide range of ingredients, encouraging creativity and innovation in developing modern confectionery masses,” says Skeljzen Nesimi, head of product management for Chocolate & Coffee at Bühler.

“With CompactMix, we are not just launching a new solution – we are enabling our customers to rethink chocolate production. From raw ingredients to finished products, Bühler provides the technology and expertise to support every step of the process, helping customers craft the chocolate of the future, delicious and affordable.”Bühler’s CompactMix combines advanced mixing and grinding technologies for efficient, flexible, and high-quality chocolate and confectionery production.