The Food Processing Plant Commissioned by Lizzi Srl: A Client Testimonial
The true value of a solution should always be measured by the words of the client.
In 2021, ME Food Solutions was entrusted with a new project by Lizzi Srl (Milan), a leading company in the production of artisanal frozen croissants, to modernize their puff pastry production line.
Within a few months, technical studies were completed, and the system was installed and fully operational.
At the core of this project is the use of CO2 as a refrigerant—ME Food Solutions’ flagship technology in the field of freezing solutions.
Here is what the Operations Director had to say:
“We worked closely with ME Food Solutions to upgrade our cold chain, specifically by renewing the freezing tunnel of our primary production line, which processes 15,000 croissants per hour. The implementation of this new system has enabled us to improve product quality, lower freezing temperatures, and achieve greater energy efficiency by eliminating the use of nitrogen previously required for freezing.
This has resulted in significant cost savings and has also supported our sustainability goals—reducing both direct and indirect emissions, thereby lessening our environmental footprint.”
The Plant Manager added:
“The installation of ME Food Solutions’ freezing tunnel has allowed us to transition to a three-shift operation on our croissant production line, running 24 hours a day, five days a week. Additionally, we have achieved a quality improvement, as we can now rapidly reduce the core temperature of our products—especially filled croissants—in the shortest possible time.”
R744: High-Performance Green Technology
Impressive! Now, let’s take a closer look at this project, a true industry trailblazer…
The croissants enter the chamber at 20°C, remain inside for approximately 60 minutes, and exit at -18°C after traveling through a 19-tier spiral conveyor system, covering a total length of 401 meters. The rapid temperature reduction is achieved through three evaporators, with a total capacity of 120 kW and an evaporation temperature of -40°C.
The transcritical system features a compressor unit equipped with a gas cooler and intercooler. This unit integrates multiple compressors, separators, and valves, all controlled by an independent electrical panel.
Pressure gauges, safety valves, and pressure switches ensure full compliance with EN378, the technical standard for refrigeration and air-conditioning systems.
A 450-liter liquid receiver and a system of electronic and mechanical high-pressure control valves complete the unit, along with a manual bypass that enables maintenance without service interruptions.
The installation of two alarm systems and the use of premium-brand components—ME Food Solutions’ standard practice—guarantees absolute plant safety, even during maintenance, which is performed by the client’s staff trained during commissioning and system startup.
No more nitrogen—CO2, or more precisely, R744 refrigerant, is the new standard. It delivers high performance while respecting the environment, with a clear vision for the future.
In fact, European regulations prohibit the use of refrigerants with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) greater than 2500.
R744 has a GWP of just 1.
Environmental responsibility.
And enhanced productivity, as confirmed by Lizzi Srl’s Plant Manager. No surprise, then, that our partnership continues with the installation of two additional systems.