How automation is transforming packaged produce solutions
In the bustling world of produce manufacturing, the journey from farm to table is fraught with challenges. If you’re in the business, you know what we’re talking about. Not only do many producers experience extremely high turnover but there’s also a slim margin for error when it comes to timing and consistency. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most persistent challenges in packaging fresh produce and how automation presents compelling solutions.
Common challenges in packaged produce
Labor shortages
One of the most pressing issues of fresh produce packaging is the shortage of skilled labor. Produce packing is a physically demanding job, meaning frequent turnover and a constant need for training new employees. Seasonal fluctuations only exacerbate the problem, making it difficult to maintain a steady, reliable workforce. This inconsistency can lead to delays in the packaging process and increased operational costs.
Consistency and quality control
Human error is another significant challenge. Workers, no matter how diligent, are prone to mistakes. This can result in unevenly packed products and even damaged goods. Maintaining uniform packaging is an important part of upholding brand reputation and meeting regulatory standards, but manual processes often fall short in delivering the precision required.
Slow throughput
With manual processes, speed is a constant battle. The demand for fresh produce is growing, yet the packaging pace often can't keep up. Slow throughput means that fresh fruits and vegetables spend more time in transit, potentially compromising their freshness by the time they reach consumers.
High waste
Finally, manual packaging often leads to excessive waste. Produce can be damaged during handling, and packaging materials may not be used efficiently. This not only affects the bottom line but also raises sustainability concerns. In an industry where margins can be slim, every bit of waste adds up, impacting overall profitability.
Benefits of automation for fresh produce packaging
Given the numerous challenges of produce packaging, it's no surprise that many manufacturers are turning to automation as a solution. Automation offers many compelling benefits for businesses aiming to improve efficiency and maintain high standards.
Take a quick look at the main advantages:
Workforce transformation
While labor shortages are a challenge in produce packaging, they also create an ideal opportunity for positive change. Far from replacing workers with machines, automated packaging equipment can redirect human talent to higher-value positions.
Modern packaging machinery handles the physically demanding, repetitive tasks that traditionally lead to burnout and turnover. By automating the "dirty work", companies can deploy their valuable human resources toward roles like quality control, machine operation, maintenance supervision, and customer relationship management—positions that offer better working conditions, higher job satisfaction, and greater career development.
Enhanced accuracy and consistency
Consistency is key when it comes to packaging, and automation excels in this area. Automated systems are equipped with advanced sensors and precision controls that ensure each package is uniform in weight, size, and appearance. This level of accuracy is essential for maintaining quality standards and customer satisfaction.
Increased speed
When it comes to packaging fresh fruits and vegetables, manual processes are no match for the speed offered by automated packaging systems. As an added bonus, machines can work continuously without the need for breaks, significantly increasing throughput.
Waste reduction
Automated systems are designed to optimize the use of packaging materials, reducing waste and cutting costs. Machines like TOMA™ are engineered to handle produce gently, minimizing damage and spoilage. This not only improves product quality but also contributes to sustainability efforts. Reducing waste is not only economically beneficial but also aligns with the growing consumer demand for environmentally friendly practices.
Types of automated packaging equipment ideal for fruits and vegetables
Premier Tech's full range of automated end-of-line packaging solutions, including the recent TOMA™ packaging line, provide innovative solutions tailored to the unique needs of the fruit and vegetable industry, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
As you consider automating your packaging process, here are a few key areas to explore:
Case packing
When you consider the process of placing delicate containers of fruits like berries or tomatoes into cases by hand, you quickly understand the risks of inconsistency and damage. Automated case packing systems ensure each piece of produce is gently and uniformly placed into cases or boxes, reducing bruising and keeping products secure. Premier Tech’s case packing solutions are designed to handle a variety of produce types with the highest precision.
Palletizing
Palletizing is a critical step in preparing fruits and vegetables for distribution. Automated palletizers stack packaged produce onto pallets with remarkable speed and precision, creating stable and balanced loads. This kind of automation ensures that each pallet is consistent, reducing the risk of toppling and damage during transportation.
Depending on the desired speed of your operations, Premier Tech’s latest innovation, TOMA™, could be the user-friendly solution you’ve been looking for. The TOMA™ cobot palletizer incorporates the power of cobot technology and is highly flexible, with a small footprint. Whether you’re dealing with crates of apples or cartons of leafy greens, TOMA™’s palletizing power can handle up to 55 lb (25 kg) and stack pallets up to 80 in (2 m). Check out the TOMA™ Configurator to answer a few short questions and envision how it could suit your operation.
Stretch hooders
Transporting fresh produce means encountering challenges like exposure to environmental factors including dust and moisture. Automated stretch hooders address these issues by securing and protecting palletized loads with a stretchable film. This film not only stabilizes the load but also shields the produce from external factors, preserving freshness and quality.
Fresh perspectives: Your next steps for better produce packaging
Want consumers to rave about your produce? Strategic automation makes it happen. Fresh, perfectly packaged fruits and vegetables not only create loyal customers but stronger retail partnerships and a thriving business. We hope you’ve benefited from this article highlighting the challenges of modern produce packaging and how automation can play a role in its future.
Choose the right automation solution and enjoy a refreshed workforce, increased efficiency, less waste, and the highest quality for your fruits and vegetables.
Get started with smarter packaging
To learn more about how Premier Tech can help you automate your packaging operations, we invite you to get in touch. Our experts are ready to guide you through the latest innovations and help you choose the right solutions for your specific needs.
