Bühler Launches CompactMix System for Flexible, Energy-efficient Confectionery Production

Bühler has unveiled CompactMix, a new mixing and grinding system designed to help chocolate and confectionery manufacturers navigate changing market demands, rising cocoa costs and growing interest in chocolate alternatives.

Launched on 4 November, the Swiss-developed solution combines the company’s ShearMix mixing technology with its Aurora ball mill, enabling fast, uniform mixing and particle reduction to below 20 microns. Bühler says the system delivers consistent textures across a broad range of fat contents while consuming up to 30% less energy than conventional equipment.

CompactMix targets producers of spreads, fillings, coatings and chocolate-like masses used in applications such as pralines, snack bars, biscuits and ice cream. With recipe flexibility increasingly important, the system is designed to support both traditional chocolate formulations and alternative masses that help manufacturers manage cocoa price volatility.

Operational efficiency is a central focus: CompactMix allows product changeovers in under two hours and includes a hygienic, fully enclosed design that supports global food safety standards. Modular scalability from 400 kg/h to 3,000 kg/h enables deployment in both small and industrial-scale plants.

“CompactMix gives manufacturers the freedom to craft premium chocolate spreads, fillings, and coatings with exceptional quality and consistency. Its flexible design supports a wide range of ingredients, encouraging creativity and innovation in developing modern confectionery masses,” said Skeljzen Nesimi, Head of Product Management Chocolate & Coffee at Bühler.

The system also addresses thermal stability challenges in hot regions such as Africa, South Asia and the Middle East. By enabling chocolate-based masses made with alternative fats and tailored textures, Bühler says CompactMix helps producers achieve higher melting points and more robust structures suited to warm-climate markets.

Digital tools integrated into CompactMix offer real-time monitoring, recipe management and smart control functionalities, designed to optimise consistency, reduce waste and tailor products for different consumer preferences.

CompactMix is engineered to fit into Bühler’s end-to-end chocolate processing line, from raw material handling through moulding. Customers can also develop recipes and scale processes at Bühler’s network of research and training centres.

“With CompactMix, we are not just launching a new solution – we are enabling our customers to rethink chocolate production. From raw ingredients to finished products, Bühler provides the technology and expertise to support every step of the process, helping customers craft the chocolate of the future, delicious and affordable,” Nesimi added.