Abstract: A process and system for drying and cooling products by which relatively low air flow is used such that a substantial amount of the heat added to the products during manufacturing is recaptured to dry the product. The products have starting temperature and moisture content conditions higher than ambient conditions, and the process and system comprise drying and cooling the product using ambient air with minimal additional heated air, if any. The product may move through various drying and cooling sections where air being counterflowed removes both heat and moisture from the product, heating that air and allowing it to further dry the product.