Effect of Agglomeration on Flowability of Baby Food Powders

Abstract: The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of the wet agglomeration in a fluidized bed on flowability of agglomerated products, such as baby food powders. The agglomeration process was performed in the fluidized bed. The wetting liquid used to the process was: water, 2% lecithin solution, and 50% sugar solution. Food powders flowability was expressed as: Hausner Ratio, pouring time, angles of sliding and of repose and flow function. The composition of materials, used to prepare mixtures, has a significant influence on tested properties. The higher milk powder of the mixtures caused decreasing of their flowability. Wet agglomeration of baby food powders caused an increase in the mean diameter of particles, which made it possible to receive agglomerates with good flowability and decreased bulk density. The increase of milk powder content from 0 to 73% in the mixture before the agglomeration contributed to improve its flowability. Wet agglomeration with 2% lecithin solution and 50% sugar solution reduced particle size and bulk density, improved flowability of received agglomerates in relation to agglomerates received with water as a wetting liquid. Practical Application: Agglomeration of baby food powders increases particle size of received agglomerates with a tendency to reduce their bulk density. Agglomerates flowability determined by using practical tests (Hausner ratio, pouring time, angles of sliding and of repose) is not sufficient for a comprehensive assessment of powdered deposit. For complex flow behavior, like that of agglomerated baby food powders, the Jenike shear test only remains as an acceptable test of flowability.