PHILLIPSBURG, KAN. — Amber Wave, a wheat ingredient producer serving the animal feed and biofuel industries, announced Oct. 27 it has initiated production at what it described as “North America’s largest wheat protein facility.” The facility will produce AmberPro™ Vital Wheat Gluten, which has applications in the pet food, specialty feed, commercial baking, alternative meat and food ingredient industries.

The facility was supported by a recent investment from parent company Summit Agricultural Group. Construction on the facility began in July 2021.

“It’s an exciting time for our organization, presenting a tremendous opportunity for our customers and growers,” said Randy Cimorelli, chief executive officer at Amber Wave. “With over 80% of the vital wheat gluten used in the United States being imported, we not only add value to the growing region but also serve as a supply chain solution provider for our customer base.”

Ryan Hemingson, vice president of sales at Amber Wave, added, “The reception we’ve received from our customer base has been outstanding. Having a reliable, domestic partner that is hours away, versus half-way around the globe is a game-changer in the vital wheat gluten marketplace.”

The state-of-the-art facility features best-in-class milling, wheat protein extraction and renewable biofuels technology. This includes a fully automated Sangati Berga mill with the capacity for 27,500 cwt, automation and air handling systems from Kice Industries, gluten extraction solutions from Flottweg, drying equipment from Vetter Tec, and packaging machinery from Premier Tech.

“Installing best-in-class processing equipment from our partner providers was at the forefront of our project,” said Steve Adams, chief operating officer at Amber Wave. “Utilizing world class automation, superior equipment and an exceptionally trained workforce, we will produce a high-quality domestic wheat protein ingredient. Safety, quality and sustainability were key areas of focus as we progressed through the project phase.”

The new Phillipsburg facility is expected to make Amber Wave a leader in wheat protein and advanced biofuel production.

“Our commitment to our people and the community will always be woven into the fabric of our organization — everyone is a part of our success,” Cimorelli said. “We have the foundation to be something truly special. After milling our wheat and extracting the protein, we use the wastewater starch slurry to produce advanced biofuels, ensuring that nothing goes to waste.”

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