Archives for May 30, 2017

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Packaging product file

Tetra Pak launches cloud-based monitoring of kit

By Rick Pendrous

A condition monitoring service has been launched by Tetra Pak to help food and drink manufacturers to predict machine failures before they occur. 

Manufacturing product file

ERP raises supply chain efficiency

By Rick Pendrous

Fresh produce supplier to high street restaurant chains, Reynolds Catering Supplies, based at Waltham Cross, near London, is using Infor’s M3 enterprise resource planning (ERP) system to raise order handling efficiency.

Manufacturing product file

Screw conveyor takes material from multiple outlets

By Rick Pendrous

A flexible screw conveyor, which has a trough hopper that can receive material from multiple outlets of feeders, grinders, blenders and other equipment, has been introduced by Flexicon.

Packaging product file

Bottling lines adapted to meet needs

By Rick Pendrous

Carbonated soft drink (CSD) bottling line supplier Sidel has responded to changing market demand for smaller, on-the-go bottles. 

Beechdean scoops up ice cream firm

By Gwen Ridler

Beechdean Group has acquired 50% of ice cream manufacturer Lovingtons, in a joint venture designed to grow investment and boost the manufacturing capabilities of the company. 

Online inspection spotlight

X-ray checks enhance fruit quality control

By Rick Pendrous

Fruit specialist Fruit Gourmet, based at Allemans-du-Dropt in south-west France, has selected an Ishida X-ray inspection system for enhanced quality control, following the installation of the company’s multi-head weighers at its site.

Manufacturing product file

Oil launched for ammonia systems

By Rick Pendrous

To meet growing use of ammonia as a natural refrigerant, ExxonMobil has launched a mineral-based oil for ammonia compressor refrigeration systems.

Moy Park boss wins HR award

By Michael Stones

Moy Park’s executive director Mike Mullan has been named HR director of the year in the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) Northern Ireland Awards 2017. 

Food and drink exports hit record levels

By Matt Atherton

UK food and drink exports reached record high levels in the first quarter of 2017, driven by overseas sales of whisky, salmon and chocolate, the Food and Drink Federation (FDF) has revealed.

Online inspection spotlight

Laser scanner detects acrylamide precursers in chips

By Rick Pendrous

Amid growing concern about the presence of cancer-causing acrylamide in crisps and French fries, a young scientist has developed a new laser system that scans peeled potatoes in the factory to detect toxic compounds before they reach the consumer.

Packaging product file

Explore Cuisine changes pack format to raise impact

By Rick Pendrous

Gluten-free, organic and high protein bean and pulse pasta brand Explore Cuisine has unveilled new packaging, with the range moving from a bag to box format.

Online inspection spotlight

Troubleshooting with a high-speed camera

By Rick Pendrous

A high-speed camera is available from US company Fastec Imaging, which allows remote monitoring and troubleshooting of food manufacturing operations.

IFST highlights its three food policy priorities

By Gwen Ridler

The Institute of Food Science & Technology (IFST) has called on the new government to focus on food science, develop policies for a sustainable food system and the challenges of Brexit, in its list of key priorities.

British Bacon Supplies plans factory closure

By Matt Atherton

Meat supplier British Bacon Supplies is planning to close its Huddersfield factory, after a flood last year at its sister factory reduced production.