Method for converting a plant raw material into at least one product, and corresponding powder, use and facility

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for converting at least one plant raw material into at least one product, the method comprising at least the steps of: - choosing a plant raw material containing proteins belonging to the globulin family; - carrying out a protein extraction from the plant raw material or from a compound derived from the plant raw material in order to obtain a protein extract; - precipitating the protein extract so as to obtain an intermediate substance; - bringing the intermediate substance into contact with a solution comprising alcohol in order to obtain a substance washed with alcohol; - drying the substance washed with alcohol in order to obtain a powder that forms the product. The invention also relates to the corresponding powder, use and facility.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] PROCESS FOR TRANSFORMING A PLANT RAW MATERIAL INTO AT LEAST ONE PRODUCT, POWDER, CORRESPONDING USE AND INSTALLATION

[0003] The present invention relates to a method for transforming a plant raw material into at least one product.

[0004] The invention also relates to a powder obtained by such a process.

[0005] The invention also relates to the use of such a powder.

[0006] The invention also relates to an installation allowing the implementation of such a method.

[0007] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Nowadays, plant proteins are becoming increasingly attractive as alternatives to animal proteins.

[0009] Two major methods of processing plant raw materials have thus developed: dry fractionation and wet fractionation.

[0010] In dry processing, the plant raw material is ground into fine particles with a diameter of a few microns and then the particles are sorted according to their size, density and / or electrostatic behavior using technologies such as air classification (also called turboseparation) and / or electrostatic separation. This produces two end products: 1) the protein concentrate also called the fine fraction and 2) the starch concentrate also called the heavy fraction.

[0011] In wet processing, the raw plant material is usually ground into fine particles with a diameter of a few microns and then the particles are suspended. Precipitation at the isoelectric point of the proteins present in these particles, followed by separation / decantation, then makes it possible to obtain a protein isolate.

[0012] Unfortunately, protein concentrates and protein isolates generally have a particular taste, particularly bitter and astringent, which tends to displease consumers. This disadvantage is accentuated for certain raw materials such as yellow peas. In addition, protein concentrates and protein isolates generally have a yellowish or grayish color which displeases consumers.

[0013] Moreover, such methods are relatively expensive and energy-intensive, particularly for the production of protein isolates.

[0014] SUBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0015] One aim of the invention is at least to propose a method for transforming a plant raw material into at least one product making it possible to at least partially overcome the aforementioned drawbacks.

[0016] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0017] With a view to at least partially achieving this aim, a method is proposed for transforming at least one plant raw material into at least one product, the method comprising at least the steps of:

[0018] - Choose a plant-based raw material containing proteins belonging to the globulin family,

[0019] - Carry out a protein extraction from the plant raw material or from a compound derived from the plant raw material, to obtain a protein extract,

[0020] - Precipitate the protein extract so as to obtain an intermediate substance,

[0021] - Bringing the intermediate substance into contact with a solution comprising alcohol to obtain an alcohol-washed substance,

[0022] - Dry the substance washed with alcohol to obtain a powder intended to form the product or forming the product itself.

[0023] Thus, bringing the intermediate substance into contact with the solution comprising alcohol allows the simple and rapid production of a product in powder form. The invention proves to be relatively energy-efficient.

[0024] In addition, the powder thus obtained forms a product with improved organoleptic properties. By improvement of organoleptic properties, we mean that the product obtained has organoleptic attributes (such as taste) that are more acceptable to the consumer and in particular a less bitter, less astringent taste... We can therefore, in a simplified manner, speak of a "debittered product" even if the invention does not only act on the bitterness of the product.

[0025] In addition, the resulting powder forms a product with improved color. By color improvement, we mean that the resulting product is much whiter, which is much more acceptable to the consumer.

[0026] In addition, the resulting powder has improved purity. Washing with alcohol removes unwanted elements and reduces the microbiological load.

[0027] The powder thus obtained is a protein product in the same way as a protein concentrate or a protein isolate. The powder thus obtained can thus optionally take the name “protein isolate” because it is obtained using wet processing steps such as precipitation or protein extraction and because its protein content is greater than 80% (i.e. out of 100 parts by weight of powder, at least 80 parts are proteins). The method for obtaining the powder is, however, very different from the wet processing methods of the prior art.

[0028] By "plant raw material" we mean a raw material of plant origin such as:

[0029] - A legume (pea, soybean, broad bean, lentil, kidney bean, chickpea, lupin, mung bean, peanut, etc.),

[0030] - A cereal (wheat, buckwheat, oats, barley, corn, rice etc.),

[0031] - An oilseed (sunflower seeds, rapeseeds, soybeans, oilseed flax seeds, hemp seeds, almonds, etc.).

[0032] For the present application, the term “plant raw material” means a raw material of plant origin comprising proteins of the globulin family.

[0033] For example, and in a non-limiting manner, the plant raw material comprises, per hundred parts by weight of plant raw material, at least 5 parts by weight of globulins.

[0034] For the present application, by "plant raw material" is preferably meant a raw material of plant origin presented in a fractionated form, that is to say in the form of flour, concentrate, cake, defatted flour, puree, ground material, extract; that is to say presented in the form of particles smaller than the base material (e.g. the seed). It is recalled that a defatted flour is a flour depleted in lipids.

[0035] For the present application, by “plant raw material” is preferably meant a raw material of plant origin such as:

[0036] - A legume (divided solids, flour, concentrate, defatted flour, cake, mash, ground material, extract),

[0037] - A cereal (divided solids, flour, concentrate, defatted flour, cake, mash, ground material, extract), - An oilseed (divided solids, flour, defatted flour, cake, mash, ground material, extract).

[0038] For the present application, the term "plant raw material" preferably means a raw material from which the powder obtained will be for human food use. This application is of course not limiting and the powder obtained may be intended for other uses: cosmetics, pharmacology, animal food, wall coverings or any other industrial application (paint, glue, cement, etc.). Optionally, the drying is vacuum drying.

[0039] Optionally, the drying is not spray drying or freeze drying.

[0040] Optionally, the plant raw material is chosen from legumes, cereals or oilseeds.

[0041] Optionally, the plant raw material is chosen so that, at the start of the protein extraction step, for 100 parts by weight of plant raw material, less than 50 parts by weight are proteins.

[0042] Optionally, the process includes a preliminary pressing step.

[0043] Optionally, the process includes a step of preparing the plant raw material before the step of carrying out the protein extraction.

[0044] Optionally, the preliminary preparation step includes at least one phase chosen from the following phases: hulling, sorting, cleaning, packaging, grinding, soaking, germination, fermentation, micronization, classification, roasting.

[0045] Optionally, the raw material is in a fractionated form for the protein extraction step. Optionally, the protein extraction step comprises at least a first sub-step of mixing said raw material with a solution to modify its pH followed by a second sub-step of treating the mixture thus obtained to separate the protein extract from at least one other by-product resulting from this mixture.

[0046] Optionally, the second sub-step comprises a first liquid / solid separation phase and a second liquid / liquid separation phase.

[0047] Optionally, the second sub-step includes at least one centrifugal separation phase.

[0048] Optionally, the solution comprising alcohol comes at least in part from recycling at least one by-product, other than the substance washed with alcohol, from the washing cycle.

[0049] Optionally, the solution comprising alcohol comes at least in part from recycling at least one by-product, other than the protein extract, from the protein extraction.

[0050] Optionally, the intermediate substance is contacted with a solution comprising alcohol during at least two different washing cycles.

[0051] Optionally, the separation of the alcohol-washed substance from other by-products is carried out by at least one liquid / solid separation phase.

[0052] Optionally, the separation of the alcohol-washed substance from other by-products is carried out by at least one centrifugal separation phase and / or by filtration.

[0053] Optionally, the powder is ground after drying, the ground powder then forming the product.

[0054] The invention thus also relates to a method for transforming at least one plant raw material into at least one product, the method comprising at least the steps of:

[0055] - Choose a plant raw material, among oilseeds, containing proteins belonging to the globulin family,

[0056] - Press the raw plant material,

[0057] - Carry out a protein extraction from the pressed plant raw material or from a compound derived from the pressed plant raw material, to obtain a protein extract,

[0058] - Modifying the pH of the protein extract by mixing the protein extract with a solution, the modification of the pH of the protein extract resulting in agglomeration or aggregation of the proteins within the mixture thus obtained,

[0059] - Treat the mixture obtained to separate an intermediate substance from the other by-products,

[0060] - Bringing the intermediate substance into contact with a solution comprising alcohol to obtain a substance washed with alcohol,

[0061] - Dry the washed substance with alcohol to obtain a powder forming the product.

[0062] Optionally, the separation of the intermediate substance from the other by-products is carried out by at least one liquid / solid separation phase.

[0063] Optionally, the separation of the intermediate substance from the other by-products is carried out by at least one centrifugal separation phase.

[0064] The invention also relates to a powder obtained by a process as mentioned above and for example a powder whose color is characterized by an L component greater than 90 according to the L*a*b measurement and / or by a number of parts by weight of proteins, per 100 parts by weight of the powder, greater than 95.

[0065] The invention also relates to a powder whose color is characterized by an L component greater than 90 according to the L*a*b measurement and / or by a number of parts by weight of proteins, per 100 parts by weight of the powder, greater than 95.

[0066] The invention also relates to the use of such a powder.

[0067] The invention also relates to an installation for implementing such a method. Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will emerge on reading the following description of particular non-limiting implementations of the invention.

[0068] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0069] The invention will be better understood in light of the description which follows with reference to the appended figures among which:

[0070] [Fig. 1] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating the main steps of a method according to a first implementation of the invention,

[0071] [Fig. 2] Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating the main steps of a method according to a second implementation of the invention.

[0072] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0073] A first implementation of the method according to the invention will now be described with reference to Figure 1. This method is implemented by an installation which will be described simultaneously.

[0074] A first step 101 consists of the preliminary preparation of a plant raw material. The installation includes a module for preparing the plant raw material for this purpose.

[0075] If the plant raw material is in its original form (grains, seeds, etc.), then the first step 101 may include at least one preparatory phase during which the plant raw material is packaged in a fractionated form (flour, concentrate, defatted flour, cake, etc.).

[0076] If the vegetable raw material is already in a fractionated form (flour, concentrate, defatted flour, cake, etc.), then the first step 101 can dispense with such a conditioning phase. It is therefore understood here that it is preferable to carry out the following steps of the treatment process on a vegetable raw material whose particles are of smaller diameters than that of the basic elements forming the vegetable raw material (cereals, legumes or cake).

[0077] Furthermore, the first step 101 may also include one or more preparatory phases such as:

[0078] - at least one phase of cleaning the plant raw material, and / or

[0079] - at least one phase of sorting the plant raw material, for example to eliminate foreign bodies, the sorting phase being able to be or include a phase of sorting by weight (for example using a pneumatic separator) and / or a phase of sorting by calibration of the plant raw material (the particles forming the plant raw material with a diameter below and / or above a given threshold being removed from the rest of the transformation process - this phase being able for example to be implemented via a sieve), and / or a phase of sorting by color (for example by optical sorting) and / or a phase of sorting by specific weight (for example by gravity separator), etc.; and / or

[0080] - at least one hulling phase allowing the removal of one or more external layers of the particles forming the plant raw material,

[0081] - etc .

[0082] The phase(s) indicated above may be combined with each other and / or implemented in a different order than that indicated. For example, at least one cleaning phase may follow at least one sorting phase. The fractionated packaging phase may, for example, follow the hulling phase.

[0083] The at least one conditioning phase can be carried out by grinding, by dry fractionation, by micronization, etc. The at least one cleaning phase can, for example, be carried out by heating, ultraviolet radiation, etc. Preferably, this cleaning phase is carried out dry without adding a solution.

[0084] The at least one hulling phase can for example be implemented by abrasion, by compression, by grinding, by thermal separation, etc.

[0085] In any case, grinding can be carried out by a knife mill, a pin mill, a roller mill, etc.

[0086] The at least one sorting phase can be implemented by optical sorting, by calibration, by gravity classification

[0087] It is therefore noted that this first step 101 comprises one or more preparatory phases, preferably none of which consists of a phase of bringing the plant raw material into contact with at least one liquid material (water, solvent such as hexane, etc.) to carry out a chemical extraction - in particular with regard to the cleaning phase.

[0088] At the end of the first step 101, the method may optionally comprise a second step 102 of pressurizing the plant raw material. For this purpose, the installation comprises a pressing module. An inlet of the pressing module is connected to an outlet of the raw material preparation module. Said pressing module comprises, for example, a press. At the end of this second step 102, an at least partially defatted plant raw material and oil are thus obtained. The oil thus obtained may optionally be used for various industrial applications: human and / or animal food, cosmetics, wall coverings, etc., or any other industrial application. Preferably, this second step 102 is implemented so as to preserve as much as possible the solubility of the proteins present in the plant raw material, in particular the proteins belonging to the globulin family.Pressurization is therefore carried out under non-denaturing conditions.

[0089] We therefore note that this second step 102 consists of a mechanical (and not chemical) extraction of the oil present in the vegetable raw material.

[0090] It is therefore understood that the second step 102 proves to be particularly interesting for vegetable raw materials which make it possible to obtain vegetable oil. Thus such a second step 102 is preferably implemented if the vegetable raw material is an oilseed (such as sunflower seeds).

[0091] Optionally, such a second step 102 is not implemented if the plant raw material is a cereal or a legume.

[0092] The third step 103 consists of a protein extraction.

[0093] Preferably, the vegetable raw material at the start of the third step 103 comprises a protein content of less than 50% and for example less than 45% and for example less than 40% (that is to say that out of 100 parts by weight of vegetable raw material, less than 50 (or 45 or 40) parts by weight are proteins).

[0094] Preferably, the plant raw material at the start of the third step 103 has been obtained solely by dry fractionation (pressing optionally included, the pressing described here being a mechanical and not chemical extraction and thus being a dry fractionation) and / or is in a naturally fractionated raw form. For the implementation of the third step 103, the installation comprises a protein extraction module. The inlet of the protein extraction module is connected to the outlet of the pressing module. Said protein extraction module comprises, for example, a mixer (such as a continuously stirred tank reactor or even a countercurrent extractor) associated with separation means. The separation means comprise, for example, centrifugal separation means (such as a centrifuge) and / or filtration separation means (such as a filter).

[0095] During the third step 103, the plant raw material is thus mixed with a solution: the pH of the solution will cause a chemical modification of the plant raw material, in particular a dissolution of the proteins of the plant raw material in the solution.

[0096] It is thus understood that the plant raw material mixed with the solution can be just as well a “raw” plant raw material (in the case where neither the first step 101 nor the second step 102 have been implemented) as a “prepared” plant raw material (in the case where the first step 101 has been implemented but not the second step 102) as a “raw defatted” plant raw material (in the case where the first step 101 has not been implemented but the second step 102 has been implemented) as a “prepared and defatted” plant raw material (in the case where the first step 101 has been implemented as well as the second step 102). For simplicity, we will simply refer to “plant raw material” hereinafter.

[0097] It is further understood that the plant raw material at the start of the third step 103 is preferably as fine as possible to simplify the third step 103. This is why it is preferred (as indicated during the description of the first step) that the plant raw material is in a fractionated form at the start of the third step 103. This fractionated form may be present at the start of the first step 101, at the end of the first step 101 or at the end of the second step 102.

[0098] It is also understood that the solution is chosen according to the plant raw material. In particular, the solution is chosen according to the pH at which the proteins of the plant raw material are more soluble. Even more precisely here, the solution is chosen according to the pH at which the proteins belonging to the globulin family of the plant raw material are more soluble.

[0099] Thus the solution can be a basic solution, a neutral solution or an acid solution depending on the associated plant raw material. The solution can thus be simply water (raw, softened or reverse osmosis) or a mixture of water (raw, softened or reverse osmosis) with at least one base or at least one acid.

[0100] For example, when the solution is a basic solution, the solution is a mixture of water (raw, softened or reverse osmosis) with one or more bases chosen from the list below: sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, sodium bicarbonate, potassium bicarbonate, etc.

[0101] For example, when the solution is an acid solution, said solution is then a mixture of water (raw, softened or osmosed) with one or more acids chosen from the list below: citric, phosphoric, lactic, hydrochloric, sulfuric, etc.

[0102] The mixture obtained is then treated to separate the protein extract from the other by-products. In particular, the mixture obtained is treated to separate the protein extract from the starch (first by-product) and / or fibers (second by-products) potentially present and / or lipid compounds such as oil (third by-products) and / or one or more other by-products potentially present.

[0103] The separation between the protein extract and one or more of the aforementioned by-products is obtained for example by filtration and / or by decantation and / or by clarification... For example, the treatment comprises at least one phase during which a solid / liquid separation is carried out and for example at least one phase during which a centrifugal solid / liquid separation is carried out. For example, said phase is a decantation or clarification phase. During this phase, the solid elements of the mixture are thus separated as much as possible from the liquid elements of said mixture. This makes it possible to eliminate as much as possible the compounds of the mixture which are insoluble from a liquid fraction of said mixture. The liquid fraction obtained at the end of this first phase is thus clarified. We can then stop there, the liquid fraction obtained forming the protein extract for the rest of the process.

[0104] Preferably, however, the treatment comprises at least one additional phase carried out solely on the aforementioned liquid fraction. During this phase, a liquid / liquid separation is, for example, carried out and, for example, a centrifugal liquid / liquid separation is carried out. For example, said phase is a phase. During this phase, the compounds immiscible in an aqueous solution (such as lipid compounds such as oil, for example) are separated as much as possible from the rest of the liquid fraction. This makes it possible to eliminate as much as possible a phase immiscible with the rest of the liquid fraction and of a density lower than it. Said immiscible phase floating on the surface of the rest of the liquid fraction makes it relatively easy to be able to carry out this new separation. The liquid fraction obtained at the end of this second phase is thus delipidated.We can then stop there, the delipidated liquid fraction obtained forming the protein extract for the rest of the process.

[0105] Note that the separation phases are carried out after the raw material has been mixed with the solution (and not at the same time as the mixing is carried out).

[0106] The fourth step 104 consists of a precipitation of the protein extract (which is liquid at the outlet of the third step 103).

[0107] For this purpose, the installation comprises a precipitation module. The inlet of the precipitation module is connected to the outlet of the protein extraction module. Said protein extraction module comprises, for example, a mixer (such as a continuously stirred tank reactor or a countercurrent extractor) associated with separation means. The separation means comprise, for example, centrifugal separation means (such as a centrifuge) and / or filtration separation means (such as a filter). During the fourth step 104, the pH of the protein extract is modified by mixing the protein extract with a solution (which may be acidic, neutral or basic). The solution may thus simply be water (raw, softened or osmosed) or a mixture of water (raw, softened or osmosed) with at least one base or at least one acid.

[0108] For example, when the solution is a basic solution, the solution is a mixture of water (raw, softened or reverse osmosis) with one or more bases chosen from the list below: sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, sodium bicarbonate, potassium bicarbonate, etc.

[0109] For example, when the solution is an acid solution, said solution is then a mixture of water (raw, softened or osmosed) with one or more acids chosen from the list below: citric, phosphoric, lactic, hydrochloric, sulfuric... The solution is thus chosen to reach the isoelectric point of the globulins present in the raw plant material, i.e. the point where the globulins precipitate.

[0110] Precipitation is therefore carried out in an acidic, neutral or basic medium depending on the pH of the protein extract. In fact, precipitation always takes place at a pH different from the pH of the protein extract since precipitation can only be achieved at the isoelectric pH of the globulins and the isoelectric pH is necessarily different from the solubilization pH of the globulins (pH which was targeted during the third step 103).

[0111] The modification of the pH of the protein extract thus leads to an agglomeration or aggregation of the proteins within the mixture thus obtained.

[0112] The resulting mixture is then treated to separate an intermediate substance (which may also be called precipitate or coagulated proteins) from the other by-products. In particular, the resulting mixture is treated to separate the intermediate substance from proteins belonging to the albumin family (first by-product) and / or sugars (second by-product) and / or minerals (third by-product) and / or one or more other by-products potentially present.

[0113] The separation between the intermediate substance and one or more of the aforementioned by-products is obtained for example by filtration and / or by decantation and / or by clarification...

[0114] For example, the treatment comprises at least one phase during which a solid / liquid separation is carried out and, for example, at least one phase during which a centrifugal solid / liquid separation is carried out. For example, said phase is a decantation or clarification phase. During this phase, the solid elements of the mixture are thus separated as much as possible from the liquid elements of said mixture. This makes it possible to eliminate as much as possible the compounds of the mixture which are insoluble from a liquid fraction of said mixture. The liquid fraction obtained at the end of this phase is thus clarified. It is then possible to stop there, the liquid fraction obtained forming the intermediate substance for the rest of the process. Optionally, a second liquid / liquid separation phase can be added as for the third step 103 and / or this second liquid / liquid separation phase can be omitted during the third step 103.

[0115] Note that the separation phases are carried out after the protein extract has been mixed with the solution (and not at the same time as the mixing is carried out).

[0116] It is therefore understood here that the intermediate substance is devoid of or contains only very few proteins belonging to the albumin family. On the other hand, the intermediate substance always contains proteins belonging to the globulin family (since it is this category of proteins which has solubility properties depending on the pH of the solution which contains them). The intermediate substance thus contains as many parts by weight of proteins belonging to the globulin family - per hundred parts by weight of intermediate substance - as the vegetable raw material - per hundred parts by weight of vegetable raw material; at plus or minus 3% and preferably at plus or minus 1%. The initial mass of globulin is thus preserved (at plus or minus 3% and preferably at plus or minus 1%) in the intermediate substance.

[0117] Note that the intermediate substance is neither solid nor liquid. Indeed, the recovered intermediate substance is semi-solid.

[0118] For example, and without limitation, the intermediate substance comprises, per hundred parts by weight of the intermediate substance, between 5 and 70 parts by weight of water.

[0119] The fifth step 105 consists of at least one washing of the intermediate substance by solution comprising alcohol. Such a solution is for example an ethanol solution.

[0120] For this purpose, the system includes a washing module. The inlet of the washing module is connected to the outlet of the precipitation module.

[0121] The fifth step 105 of washing with alcohol is therefore carried out after the fourth step 104 of precipitation with protein extract and not at the same time as it.

[0122] Said washing module comprises, for example, a mixer (such as a continuously stirred tank reactor or a countercurrent extractor) associated with separation means. The separation means comprise, for example, centrifugal separation means (such as a centrifuge) and / or filtration separation means (such as a filter).

[0123] During a first washing cycle, the intermediate substance is mixed with an ethanol solution. The mixture of the intermediate substance with the ethanol solution thus forms a hydroalcoholic solvent.

[0124] Preferably, the fifth alcohol washing step 105 comprises a preliminary phase of determining the alcohol concentration (volume or mass) of the ethanol solution and / or the volume of ethanol solution to be mixed with the intermediate substance. This preliminary phase makes it possible to limit the polarity of the hydroalcoholic solvent. This facilitates the solubilization of undesirable compounds in the hydroalcoholic solvent (polyphenols, phospholipid, aromatic compounds). Undesirable because they deteriorate the organoleptic properties of the final product and they tend to cause solubilization of proteins in the hydroalcoholic solvent, which is not desirable.

[0125] For example, the preliminary phase includes a first stage during which the concentration (volume or mass) of water in the intermediate substance is estimated. For example, the water concentration of the intermediate substance is measured by analyzing the rate of dry matter present in this intermediate substance.

[0126] The preliminary phase preferably comprises a second stage during which the alcohol concentration (volume or mass) of the ethanol solution [and / or the volume of ethanol solution to be mixed with the intermediate substance] is accordingly estimated so that the alcohol concentration (volume or mass) of the hydroalcoholic solvent is included in a given interval. Said interval is for example [50; 80] and for example [60; 70].

[0127] It turns out that the intermediate substance is mainly composed of water (for example, for 100 parts by mass of the intermediate substance, between 60 and 90 parts by mass are water). The mixture of the intermediate substance with the ethanol solution must therefore preferably form a hydroalcoholic solvent whose strength is between 50% and 80% and, for example, whose strength is between 60 and 70% (by X%, we mean that for 100 parts by volume of the hydroalcoholic solvent, the solvent contains X parts by volume of ethanol).

[0128] For example, the solution is ethanol at least 60% and for example at least 70% and for example at least 80% and for example at least 90% and for example at least 95% and for example at 99% (by X%, we mean that for 100 parts by volume of solution, the solution contains X parts by volume of ethanol).

[0129] The alcohol will replace the water molecules contained in the intermediate substance, which will cause the intermediate substance to dry out. In addition, during this washing cycle, the intermediate substance is drastically depleted of one or more components from the following list: fat (lipid such as polar lipid, free fatty acid, neutral lipid, waxes, etc.), sterols, polyphenol, carotenoid, chlorophyll, etc. This improves the organoleptic and visual properties of the substance washed with alcohol. In addition, during this washing cycle, washing with alcohol eliminates a large number of undesirable living organisms (bacteria, microorganisms, fungi such as fungi, etc.).

[0130] At the outlet of the mixer are the separation means which will make it possible to separate, at the end of the first washing cycle, a substance washed with alcohol on the one hand and on the other hand at least one other by-product. At least one by-product is a fluid such as a miscella (fluid composed at least in part of oils and solvents).

[0131] The separation between the substance washed with alcohol and one or more of the aforementioned by-products is obtained for example by filtration and / or by decantation and / or by clarification...

[0132] For example, the treatment comprises at least one phase during which a solid / liquid separation is carried out and, for example, at least one phase during which a centrifugal solid / liquid separation is carried out. For example, said phase is a decantation or clarification phase.

[0133] For example, the treatment comprises at least one phase during which a solid / liquid separation is carried out and, for example, at least one phase during which a solid / liquid separation by filtering is carried out. During this phase, the solid components of the mixture are thus separated as much as possible from a liquid fraction of said mixture.

[0134] This separation can for example be implemented by filtration (via passage of the mixture through a granular medium and / or a filter made of permeable or semi-permeable material retaining particles larger than its pores).

[0135] Optionally, this filtration can be accelerated by pressure exerted, for example, by centrifugal force. We then have a double separation by filtration and / or centrifugal separation (implemented, for example, by a centrifugal wringer or by a pusher centrifuge).

[0136] In all cases (separation by filtration and / or centrifugal separation), the separation allows the solid compounds, which therefore include proteins, which are insoluble in the said liquid fraction to be isolated as much as possible. The liquid fraction obtained at the end of this phase is thus clarified. Here, the aim is to limit as much as possible the presence of components in suspension in the liquid fraction in order to be able to maximize the protein concentration in the rest of the mixture. The rest of the mixture (i.e. the initial mixture less the liquid fraction removed during the separation) here forms the aforementioned alcohol-washed substance for the rest of the process.

[0137] In all cases (separation by filtration and / or centrifugal separation), the separation phase is carried out after the intermediate substance has been mixed with alcohol (and not at the same time as the mixing is carried out). The substance washed with alcohol is thus more consistent than the intermediate substance.

[0138] Preferably, the alcohol-washed substance is itself neither solid nor liquid. The alcohol-washed substance is semi-solid. The alcohol-washed substance is, however, less liquid than the intermediate substance.

[0139] Preferably, during the fifth step 105, before the first washing cycle or during the first washing cycle, if necessary, a neutralization phase is also implemented. This phase consists of ensuring that one works at neutral pH.

[0140] For this purpose, the pH of the intermediate substance is adjusted before or during its contact with the solution comprising alcohol.

[0141] For this purpose, depending on the pH of the intermediate substance, the intermediate substance can be mixed with an acidic solution (if the pH of the intermediate substance is basic) or with a basic solution (if the pH of the intermediate substance is acidic). The acidic or basic solution can be the same as that used in one of the previous steps or can be a different solution. The solution can thus be mixed with the intermediate substance before contacting with the alcohol or at the same time as contacting with the alcohol.

[0142] The fifth step 105 may comprise a single wash cycle.

[0143] Alternatively, the fifth step 105 may comprise several washing cycles and for example at least two washing cycles.

[0144] In this case, after the first washing cycle, the substance washed with alcohol is again mixed with a solution containing alcohol during a second washing cycle.

[0145] This new washing cycle can be implemented in the same mixing device - separation means as for the first washing cycle or can be implemented in another mixing device - separation means than for the first washing cycle.

[0146] This new washing cycle may also optionally include a preliminary phase for determining the alcohol concentration (by volume or mass) of the ethanol solution and / or the volume of ethanol solution. For example, the preliminary phase includes a first stage during which the water concentration (by volume or mass) of the intermediate substance is estimated and a second stage during which the alcohol concentration (by volume or mass) of the ethanol solution [and / or the volume of ethanol solution to be mixed with the intermediate substance] is consequently estimated so that the alcohol concentration (by volume or mass) of the hydroalcoholic solvent is within a given interval.

[0147] Preferably this interval is longer than that of the first wash cycle.

[0148] The said interval is for example [85; 100] and for example [90; 100] and is for example [92; 100].

[0149] The mixture of the substance washed with alcohol with the ethanol solution should preferably form a hydroalcoholic solvent whose titre is higher than that of the hydroalcoholic solvent of the first cycle. This titre is for example between 85% and 100% and for example whose titre is between 90% and 100% and for example whose titre is between 92% and 100% (by X%, it is meant that for 100 parts by volume of the hydroalcoholic solvent, the solvent contains X parts by volume of ethanol).

[0150] At the end of the nth washing cycle (n being greater than or equal to 2), the substance washed with alcohol is optionally mixed again with a solution comprising alcohol during an n+1st washing cycle.

[0151] This n+1 th washing cycle can be implemented in the same mixing device - separation means as for one of the previous washing cycles or can be implemented in another mixing device - separation means than for one of the previous washing cycles.

[0152] This n+1st washing cycle can also optionally include a preliminary phase of determining the concentration (volume or mass) of alcohol in the ethanol solution and / or the volume of ethanol solution.

[0153] For example, the preliminary phase includes a first stage during which the concentration (volume or mass) of water in the intermediate substance is estimated and a second stage during which the concentration (volume or mass) of alcohol in the ethanol solution [and / or the volume of ethanol solution to be mixed with the intermediate substance] is consequently estimated so that the concentration (volume or mass) of alcohol in the hydroalcoholic solvent is included in a given interval.

[0154] Preferably this interval is longer than that of the first wash cycle.

[0155] Optionally this interval is identical to that of at least one of the n-th cycles.

[0156] The said interval is for example [85; 100] and for example [90; 100] and is for example [92; 100].

[0157] The mixture of the substance washed with alcohol with the ethanol solution must preferably form a hydroalcoholic solvent whose titre is higher than that of the hydroalcoholic solvent of the first cycle and / or whose titre is identical to that of the hydroalcoholic solvent of at least one of the n-th cycles. This titre is for example between 85% and 100% and for example whose titre is between 90% and 100% and for example whose titre is between 92% and 100% (by X%, it is meant that for 100 parts by volume of the hydroalcoholic solvent, the solvent contains X parts by volume of ethanol).

[0158] This produces a substance that is further washed with alcohol on the one hand and at least one other by-product on the other. At least one by-product is a fluid such as a miscella. The substance further washed with alcohol is thus more consistent than the intermediate substance and also more consistent than the substance obtained at the end of the first alcohol washing cycle.

[0159] Preferably, the substance further washed with alcohol is itself neither solid nor liquid. The substance further washed with alcohol is semi-solid. The substance further washed with alcohol is, however, less liquid than the intermediate substance and than the substance obtained at the end of the first alcohol washing cycle.

[0160] At the end of the second washing cycle, the substance further washed with alcohol may undergo a new washing cycle using a solution comprising alcohol or the fifth step 105 may comprise only two washing cycles.

[0161] Each wash cycle therefore corresponds to a passage through a mixing device - separation means (different device or identical to that of the previous wash cycle).

[0162] Each wash cycle allows a little more dehydration (by replacement with ethanol) of the intermediate substance.

[0163] During the fifth step 105, but particularly during the first washing cycle, advantageously, the intermediate substance is drastically depleted of one or more components from the following list: fatty matter (lipid such as polar lipid, free fatty acid, neutral lipid, waxes, etc.), sterols, polyphenol, carotenoid, chlorophyll, etc.

[0164] This improves the organoleptic and visual properties of the substance washed with alcohol. In addition, washing with alcohol, especially during the first wash cycle, eliminates a large number of unwanted living organisms (bacteria, microorganisms, fungi such as fungi, etc.).

[0165] This helps to improve the usability and properties of the alcohol-washed substance.

[0166] The number of washing cycles preferably depends on the desired drying and / or the desired extraction rate of the intermediate substance of one or more of the aforementioned components and / or the rate of destruction of undesirable living organisms.

[0167] Preferably, it is preferred to have at least two washing cycles: the first washing cycle as mentioned above and at least one second washing cycle as mentioned above. It is therefore understood that preferably, the first washing cycle is carried out with a hydroalcoholic solvent having an alcohol content lower than the alcohol contents of all the other hydroalcoholic solvents of the cycles which follow it. The first cycle mainly makes it possible to eliminate undesirable components and organisms and the other cycles mainly make it possible to dry and dehydrate the intermediate substance.

[0168] Preferably, for 100 parts by weight of the substance washed with alcohol and obtained at the end of the fifth step 105, the number of parts by weight of at least one of the aforementioned components is less than 1. Preferably, for 100 parts by weight of the substance washed with alcohol and obtained at the end of the fifth step 105, the cumulative number of parts by weight of all of the aforementioned components is less than 2 and preferably less than 1. If the fifth step 105 comprises several washing cycles, the neutralization phase can take place during at least two washing cycles or can take place only during the first washing cycle. The preliminary phase of determining the concentration (volume or mass) of alcohol in the ethanol solution and / or the volume of ethanol solution can take place during at least two washing cycles or can take place only during the first washing cycle.

[0169] Preferably, the neutralization phase takes place only during the first wash cycle, which reduces the treatment time.

[0170] The fifth step 105 may also comprise a phase 107 of recycling the fluid from at least one of the washing cycles and preferably of recycling the fluid from each of the washing cycles. For this purpose, the installation comprises a recycling module, one inlet of which is connected to an outlet of at least one washing module.

[0171] The different fluids from the different washing cycles are preferably managed by the same recycling module.

[0172] This makes it possible to obtain, among other things, recycled alcohol. This recycled alcohol can then be used during another washing cycle (either for a new volume of intermediate substance or for an additional cycle of a volume of intermediate substance having already undergone at least one washing cycle). At the end of the fifth step 105, the substance washed with alcohol is heavily loaded with alcohol, which limits its use.

[0173] Thus, during a sixth step 106, the substance washed with alcohol obtained at the end of the fifth step 105 (and therefore obtained at the end of one or more washing cycles) is preferably dried. Preferably, during the sixth step 106, the substance washed with alcohol is dried by vacuum drying.

[0174] For this purpose, the installation comprises a drying module and preferably a vacuum drying module. The drying module has an inlet which is connected to an outlet of the washing module.

[0175] Having a substance with a high alcohol content (and therefore very low water content) at the start of the drying stage is advantageous.

[0176] Indeed, alcohol has a lower boiling point than water, which makes it easier to evaporate. The sixth step 106 is therefore less energy-intensive to implement.

[0177] Alcohol has a higher vapor pressure than water, so it evaporates more easily at room temperature than water. The sixth step 106 is therefore less energy-intensive to implement. Alcohol has weaker hydrogen bonds than water, which makes it easier to remove during drying.

[0178] At the end of the sixth step 106, we thus recover a powder which is a protein powder.

[0179] Advantageously, the powder thus obtained has an interesting mass percentage of proteins. The powder thus obtained comprises for 100 parts by weight of the protein isolate at least 80 parts by weight of proteins and for example at least 90 parts by weight of proteins and for example at least 95 parts by weight of proteins and for example at least 98 parts by weight of proteins and for example at least 99 parts by weight of proteins. It should be noted that the number of parts by weight of proteins in the substance washed with alcohol obtained at the end of the fifth step 105 (per 100 parts by weight of said substance) is identical to that present in the powder obtained at the end of the sixth step 106 (per 100 parts by weight of said powder).

[0180] Such a powder can therefore be called a “protein isolate” because of the third step 103 and / or the fourth step 104 as well as the protein content even though the invention is different from the wet transformations of the prior art. It should also be noted that the substance washed with alcohol obtained at the end of the fifth step 105 can therefore itself be called a “protein isolate” despite its ethanol content.

[0181] In addition, the powder thus obtained has a whiter color than the isolates of the prior art (generally yellowish or grayish), to which users are very sensitive.

[0182] In particular, the powder thus has a component L greater than 90 (according to the L*a*b measurement and for example the L*a*b CIE 1976 measurement) and for example greater than 92 and for example greater than 94 and for example greater than 95 and for example greater than 96. For the clarity values ​​L indicated above, the parameter a is for example (in absolute value) between 0 and 0.2 and for example between 0 and 0.1.

[0183] For the clarity values ​​L indicated above, and the parameter values ​​a indicated above, the parameter b is for example between 6 and 7.5 and for example between 6.7 and 7.

[0184] For example, the powder obtained has a clarity L greater than 95 (with a parameter a in absolute value between 0 and 1 and a parameter b in absolute value between 6.7 and 7).

[0185] Furthermore, the powder thus obtained has improved organoleptic properties. In particular, the process thus described makes it possible to eliminate, or at least significantly remove, organoleptic notes perceived negatively by consumers (bitterness, astringency, etc.).

[0186] In addition, the drying step can be carried out by vacuum drying, which is less energy-intensive than prior art drying methods such as spray drying or freeze-drying.

[0187] It is noted that the fifth ethanol washing step itself contributes to the drying, of course to a much lesser extent than the dedicated sixth drying step. Advantageously, whether the powder is used or the substance washed with alcohol is used, the method described makes it possible to dispense with a dedicated pasteurization step as in the methods of the prior art thanks to the alcohol washing. The method described thus makes it possible to transform the plant raw material more efficiently and in a less energy-intensive manner.

[0188] Furthermore, washing with alcohol makes it possible to do without solvents sometimes used in the prior art, such as for example a hexane-based solvent, the use of which is particularly monitored from an environmental and public health point of view.

[0189] In addition, the powder thus obtained can be used in food preparations (for human and / or animal use) such as sweet or salty drinks, sweet or salty dairy preparations, sweet or salty bakery preparations, sweet or salty pastry preparations, sweet or salty culinary preparations, snacks and food supplements such as drinks and / or nutritional bars, etc.

[0190] The powder thus obtained can for example be used in the following preparations (non-exhaustive list): milk, fermented milk (yogurt), cheese, dairy analogues, nutritional drinks, snacks, mousse, biscuits, tofu, mayonnaise, bread, vegetable meat or animal meat substitute or fish substitute, hybrid products (with proteins of animal and microbial origin), pie doughs, etc.

[0191] A second implementation will now be described with reference to Figure 2.

[0192] This second implementation is identical to the first with regard to the treatment of the plant raw material.

[0193] In fact, just as in the first implementation, the plant raw material will be treated here by the following succession of steps:

[0194] - first step of preparation 101,

[0195] - second pressing stage 102,

[0196] - third extraction step 103,

[0197] - fourth stage of precipitation 104,

[0198] - fifth washing step (in one or more cycles) 105,

[0199] - sixth drying step 106.

[0200] Everything that has been said for the first implementation is therefore also applicable for the second implementation. However, unlike the first implementation for which the alcohol used for washing came from an external source, in the second implementation, the alcohol comes at least in part from a treatment of the by-products obtained at the end of the third extraction step 103 (excluding the protein extract of course).

[0201] These by-products contain starch and / or fibers as indicated above.

[0202] The method thus comprises a first phase 108 of separating the starch from the rest of the by-products. For example, the installation comprises a separation module whose inlet is connected to an outlet of the extraction model. For this purpose, the separation module may for example comprise a centrifugal sieve and / or a hydrocyclone.

[0203] The process then comprises a second phase 109 of starch fermentation. For example, the installation comprises a fermentation module, one inlet of which is connected to an outlet of the separation module.

[0204] At the end of this second phase, we thus obtain raw alcohol and, for example, raw ethanol.

[0205] The method preferably comprises a third phase 110 of purification of the raw alcohol. For example, the installation comprises a purification module, one inlet of which is connected to an outlet of the fermentation module.

[0206] At the end of this third phase 110, alcohol is therefore obtained which can be used for implementing the fifth washing step 105. The purification module can thus comprise an outlet connected to the washing module or to the recycling module implementing the recycling phase 107.

[0207] The installation may only comprise this source of supply of alcohol or may additionally comprise an additional external source of supply of alcohol (in the first embodiment, the installation is thus connected to a source of supply of alcohol).

[0208] The second implementation therefore allows for optimized treatment of the plant raw material.

[0209] The second implementation is particularly interesting for starchy plant raw materials such as cereals or legumes. If the plant raw material is a cereal or a legume, the second pressing step is preferably dispensed with and the extraction module is then directly connected to the preparation module.

[0210] Whatever the implementation considered, and as already indicated, the powder thus obtained is particularly low in undesirable components and / or organisms.

[0211] For example, the powder contains, per 100 parts by weight of powder thus obtained, less than 1 part by weight of polyphenol and for example less than 0.7 parts by weight of polyphenol and for example less than 0.5 parts by weight of polyphenol and for example less than 0.3 parts by weight of polyphenol.

[0212] For example, the powder contains, per 100 parts by weight of powder thus obtained, less than 3 parts by weight of phytic acid and for example less than 2.5 parts by weight of phytic acid and for example less than 2 parts by weight of phytic acid.

[0213] For example, the powder contains, per 100 parts by weight of powder thus obtained, less than 3 parts by weight of phytic acid and for example less than 2.5 parts by weight of phytic acid and for example less than 2 parts by weight of phytic acid.

[0214] For example, the powder contains, per 100 parts by weight of powder thus obtained, less than 3 parts by weight of fat and for example less than 2.5 parts by weight of fat and for example less than 2.3 parts by weight of fat.

[0215] Whatever the implementation considered, the powder thus obtained can be used in multiple applications.

[0216] Examples of non-limiting applications are listed below.

[0217] Vegetable milk

[0218] A mixture of water, powder as mentioned above, and sugar is prepared in a container. Preferably, for 100 parts by mass of the mixture, the proportions are:

[0219] - 4 parts powder

[0220] - 1.8 parts rapeseed oil

[0221] - 2.5 parts sugar,

[0222] - the rest of the parts being water.

[0223] This mixing is carried out until the mixture is homogenized (no lumps in the mixture). Homogenization can optionally be carried out under pressure, for example at a pressure of 500 bars.

[0224] This produces a vegetable milk (called “product 1”).

[0225] Plant-based yogurt

[0226] Product 1 is heated (e.g. to 90°C). Lactic ferments are added. The mixture is then placed in an oven (e.g. at 43°C) until a target pH of the mixture is reached (e.g. a pH of 4.6).

[0227] The mixture is then cooled until it reaches 4°C.

[0228] This gives you a plant-based yogurt (called “product 2”).

[0229] Vegetable spreadable cheese Product 2 is drained and then stirred. Starch and salt are then added (e.g. for 500 parts by weight of drained and stirred product 2, 25 parts by weight of starch - such as corn starch - 2 parts by weight of salt are added).

[0230] The mixture is heated (for example to 90°C).

[0231] The mixture is cooled until it reaches 4°C.

[0232] This produces a vegetable spreadable cheese (called “product 3”).

[0233] Vegetable mayonnaise

[0234] A mixture of water, powder as mentioned above, salt, white vinegar and mustard is made in a container. Preferably, for 6 grams of powder in mass, the proportions are:

[0235] - 1 gram of salt

[0236] - 1 gram of white vinegar

[0237] - 10 grams of mustard

[0238] - 40 milliliters of water.

[0239] Then the mixture is stirred and oil (such as sunflower oil) is gradually added while stirring.

[0240] This gives you mayonnaise.

[0241] High moisture extrusion meat substitutes

[0242] A fibrous product is obtained after passing through an extruder a mixture based on at least water and the powder as mentioned above. The extruder is for example a twin-screw extruder. The rotation speed of the screw(s) is for example 200 rpm. The ratio of parts by weight of water / parts by weight of powder is for example 1.5. The temperature in the enclosure comprising the screw(s) is for example 120°C.

[0243] The invention is not limited to the implementations described, but on the contrary encompasses any variant incorporating, with equivalent means, the essential characteristics set out above.

[0244] Other steps than those described may be implemented by the invention.

[0245] The invention may thus include a step of intensive manipulation of the raw material to modify the final flavor of the isolate. Optionally, the raw material may be roasted, grilled, burned, etc. to give it a particular taste of biscuit, caramel, hazelnut, etc. The invention may also include a step of mixing the raw material with another component such as water, an additional flour to balance the amino acid profile of the mixture of raw material and additional flour, etc.

[0246] One or more phases other than those indicated may be implemented during the first stage and for example at least one phase chosen from the following phases: hulling, sorting, cleaning, packaging, grinding, soaking, germination, fermentation, micronization, classification, roasting or any other phase usually implemented during dry processing.

[0247] In addition to alcohol, the recycling module will be able to recover one or more additional by-products that can be reused (such as sugar, oil, etc.).

[0248] The number of wash cycles may differ from what has been indicated. For example, the number of wash cycles may be between 1 and 10 wash cycles (this interval is not limiting).

[0249] Although here the alcohol washing is carried out in successive cycles, the alcohol washing may be continuous. For example, the alcohol washing may be carried out as indicated above during a single washing cycle or may be carried out during a single washing cycle by continuous washing or may be carried out during several washing cycles, each washing cycle being carried out continuously.

[0250] A technique other than mixing / separation may thus be used to ensure continuous alcohol washing, such as the percolation technique (or "belt extractor technology" in English). Thus, a device other than a mixer device - separation means may be used to ensure continuous alcohol washing. For example, the washing module may comprise a machine based on percolation washing such as a conveyor-extractor, a machine based on counter-current washing, etc. For example, in the case of the conveyor-extractor, the washing module may thus comprise an enclosure associated with a continuous conveying system between an inlet of the enclosure into which the intermediate substance (obtained at the end of the fourth stage) is introduced and an outlet of the enclosure into which the substance washed with alcohol is recovered.The system will thus comprise at least one or more nozzles for spraying an alcohol solution onto the product conveyed into the enclosure. It will therefore be understood that the washing is then carried out by spraying a solution comprising alcohol and not by mixing with an alcohol solution as previously mentioned. The neutralization phase may optionally be carried out before the intermediate substance is introduced into the enclosure or at the same time as the intermediate substance moves into the enclosure.

[0251] Whatever the implementation of the step of contact with alcohol, the drying step may be implemented differently from what has been indicated, for example by oven, by heating, etc.

[0252] Although here all the steps of the process are carried out at room temperature, one or more steps may be carried out at a temperature higher or lower than room temperature. At least one step may be carried out at a temperature between 5 and 65 degrees Celsius. In particular, the step of contacting with alcohol may be carried out at a temperature between 5 and 65 degrees Celsius. The higher the temperature at which the contact with alcohol is carried out, the easier it will be to eliminate the undesirable elements of the intermediate substance and / or the elements affecting the final organoleptic properties of the powder (fat (lipid such as polar lipid, free fatty acid, neutral lipid, etc.), sterol, polyphenol, carotenoid, chlorophyll, etc.). On the other hand, the higher the temperature at which the contact with alcohol is carried out, the less soluble the powder will be in water.Depending on the intended application of the powder, it will therefore be necessary to work at a higher or lower temperature when bringing it into contact with the alcohol. Preferably, the sixth drying stage will take place at least partly at a temperature higher than room temperature and for example at a temperature between 40 and 65 degrees Celsius. For example, the sixth drying stage could start at room temperature and gradually increase.

[0253] The method may include one or more additional steps, such as at least one post-treatment step that is implemented after the drying step. The post-treatment step may, for example, modify one or more properties of the powder, such as a rheological property of the powder. This illustration is not limiting and the post-treatment step may make it possible to achieve one or more other targets, such as, for example, functionalization of the powder.

[0254] The post-treatment step may, for example, consist of a step of grinding the powder obtained in order to obtain a homogenized powder. Grinding the powder obtained after the drying step makes it possible to reduce and / or standardize the dimensions of the particles present in the powder. In this way, the homogenized powder can interact more easily with a solution (such as water) when it is used to obtain food for human and / or animal use. In particular, the powder obtained has better dispersion qualities. This additional grinding step may be implemented by any known means: knife mill, pin mill, roller mill, etc.

[0255] The drying step may be implemented differently from what has been indicated and for example by a technique other than vacuum drying. In a non-limiting manner, the drying step may thus for example be implemented by superheated steam (for example by a saturated steam dryer).

[0256] Although here the alcohol used is ethanol, the alcohol used could be different and thus be methanol, n-propanol, isopropanol... or a mixture of several of the aforementioned components.

[0257] During the third step 103, it may be possible to consider adding one or more antioxidants (such as ascorbic acid or a sulfite) to the mixture of the plant raw material in the solution. This will in particular limit the oxidation of polyphenols and lipids present in this mixture.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Process for transforming at least one plant raw material into at least one product, the process comprising at least the steps of: - Choose a plant-based raw material containing proteins belonging to the globulin family, - Carry out a protein extraction from the plant raw material or from a compound derived from the plant raw material, to obtain a protein extract, - Precipitate the protein extract so as to obtain an intermediate substance, - Bringing the intermediate substance into contact with a solution comprising alcohol to obtain an alcohol-washed substance, - Dry the washed substance with alcohol to obtain a powder forming or intended to form the product.

2. Transformation method according to claim 1, in which the drying is vacuum drying.

3. Transformation method according to one of claims 1 to 2, in which the drying is not spray drying or freeze drying.

4. Processing method according to one of claims 1 to 3, in which the vegetable raw material is chosen from legumes, cereals or oilseeds.

5. Transformation method according to one of claims 1 to 4, comprising a prior pressing step.

6. Transformation method according to one of claims 1 to 5, comprising a step of preparing (101) the plant raw material before the step of carrying out the protein extraction (103).

7. Transformation method according to claim 6, in which the preliminary preparation step (101) comprises at least one phase chosen from the phases following: hulling, sorting, cleaning, packaging, grinding, soaking, germination, fermentation, micronization, classification, roasting.

8. Processing method according to one of the preceding claims, in which the raw material is in a fractionated form for the protein extraction step.

9. Transformation method according to one of the preceding claims, in which the solution comprising alcohol comes at least in part from recycling at least one by-product, other than the substance washed with alcohol, from the washing cycle.

10. Transformation method according to one of the preceding claims, in which the solution comprising alcohol comes at least in part from recycling at least one by-product, other than the protein extract, from the protein extraction.

11. Transformation method according to one of the preceding claims, in which the intermediate substance is brought into contact with a solution comprising alcohol during at least two different washing cycles.

12. Powder obtained by a process according to one of the preceding claims.

13. Powder whose color is characterized by an L component greater than 90 according to the L*a*b measurement and / or by a number of parts by weight of proteins, per 100 parts by weight of the powder, greater than 95.

14. Use of a powder according to one of claims 12 to 13 in human food or animal food or in cosmetics or in pharmacology or in wall coverings.

15. Installation for implementing the transformation method according to one of the preceding claims, the installation comprising at least one extraction module protein, a precipitation module, a washing module and a drying module.

16. Installation according to claim 15, in which the washing module comprises at least one mixer-centrifuge assembly.

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