NSK Completes Mass Production Development of Food Oil Degradation Prevention Filter

NSK Advances Food Oil Preservation Technology

NSK Ltd., headquartered in Shinagawa, Tokyo, has reached a significant milestone with the mass production of its innovative food oil degradation prevention filter. This groundbreaking development aims to extend the life of cooking oils used in frying processes and to reduce operational costs for food manufacturers and restaurants. The project was initiated in 2015, with testing and trials conducted over several years, culminating in its recent launch in the summer of 2024. Now, NSK is ready to move forward with its commercial production.

Utilizing Expertise in Lubricants and Paper Making

NSK applied its expertise in lubricant degradation suppression from bearing development along with paper-making technology honed during automotive powertrain friction material development. This synergy led to the creation of a filter designed to hold additives that prevent oil degradation while also removing food residues such as frying crumbs. Remarkably, this filter's practical application marks a world-first in the industry.

Significance of the New Filter

Food oil degradation is a significant concern for those in the food service sector. Regularly changing cooking oil not only incurs expenses but also contributes to environmental waste. By integrating a special additive within the filter, NSK claims that the filter can stretch the lifespan of cooking oil by up to 30%. This means that restaurants and food processors who previously replaced oil every three days might extend that to every four days, thus cutting back on both costs and waste.

Enhancing Filtration Efficiency

This innovative filter eliminates foreign substances while also tackling oxidation by removing degraded materials from the oil. Traditional methods often involve powders that present a health risk when inhaled or require cumbersome cleanup. NSK's approach minimizes these risks significantly, making it a safer and more efficient solution.

Safety First

Safety is paramount, and NSK has ensured that the additives used in the filter comply with food safety standards as set by Japan’s Ministry of Health. The filter material itself is designed to meet strict criteria, providing further assurance to users regarding the safety of their cooking processes.

Future Development and Market Expansion

NSK plans to broaden its customer base beyond large food processing companies to include convenience stores, supermarkets, and ready-meal retailers that do not typically utilize filtration systems. The company aims to enhance its performance further while expanding its market reach over the coming years.

Background of the Development

Under its current mid-term management plan, NSK pursues new product and business expansion under the slogan “Bearings & Beyond.” The development of this food oil filter reflects NSK's commitment to innovation and meeting market demands. Participation in events like FOOMA JAPAN allowed the company to assess market needs thoroughly, and valuable feedback was collected, which guided subsequent improvements.

Conclusion

Having completed the mass production of the food oil degradation prevention filter, NSK underscores its dedication to enhancing operational sustainability in the food industry. The benefits of oil lifespan extension not only lead to significant cost savings for users but also support environmental conservation through reduced waste. As NSK continues to innovate and expand its offerings, it remains a key player in ensuring food safety and operational efficiency in culinary environments.

For inquiries about this product and its specifications, please contact NSK's Technical Development Division at [email protected] or visit their website for further information.

NSK has been paving the way for over a century since the production of Japan’s first bearings in 1916. With a robust global presence in about 30 countries, the company remains a leader in its field, constantly striving to improve the intersection of motion and control as well as global connectivity. Their vision for 2026 emphasizes the continuous creation of innovative solutions that meet societal expectations.