Cincinnati-based Avure Technologiesis expanding its manufacturing, engineering and office space in Middletown, Ohio, to keep up with demand for its line of high-pressure processing (HPP) machines.

“We’re seeing a boom in the number of food producers who are using HPP as a way to increase food safety and extend the shelf life of their products without adding a laundry list of chemical additives and preservatives,” says Jeff Williams, chief executive officer. “Consumers are demanding cleaner labels, and you can see the evidence in the grocery store with food that’s been HPPd taking up more and more shelf space.”

Deli meats, wet salads, salsas, dips, ready-to-eat meals, juices, baby food and even pet food are products using HPP as a method of chemical-free preservation.

“The demand for HPP equipment is being driven by everyone from large, multi-national companies that are adding HPP product lines to small start-ups who developed their product with HPP from the beginning,” adds Lisa Pitzer, marketing director. “And, we’re only at the beginning of this trend with demand increasing exponentially.”

In addition to the expansion, Avure celebrated the completion of the 300^th HPP machine manufactured at the Middletown facility.

“It was an exciting milestone to see the 300th machine built, and now, with the addition of the new, expandable AV-X, we have an HPP machine to fit every need,” Pitzer says. “2016 promises to be our busiest year yet.”