MULTI-STAGE MEMBRANE CONCENTRATION METHODS AND PRODUCTS

摘要

A method is provided comprising passing a product through a first filtration membrane having a molecular weight cutoff (MWCO) greater than 500,000 Daltons using a pressure of between 10 pounds per square inches (psi) and 150 psi, thereby providing a first filtration retentate and a first filtration permeate. The first filtration permeate is passed through a second filtration membrane using a pressure of between 250 psi and 3,500 psi, thereby providing a second filtration retentate and a second filtration permeate. The second filtration retentate is passed through a third filtration membrane, using a pressure of between 250 psi and 3,500 psi, thereby providing a third filtration retentate and a third filtration permeate. Also, a concentrated product is provided having a brix of at least 35 degrees, for instance prepared by combining the first and third filtration retentates.