Benefits of Automating Bakery Processing Lines

Bakery may not appear as ripe for automation as other parts of the food processing industry. In fact, the artisan market's rise is driving the demand for automation across the baking industry.

Fremont, CA: “Automate or Die." This concept has been used in various industries as businesses strive to improve their operations while lowering expenses. Being a late adopter of automation technologies, the food business hasn't quite reached this point yet. However, as more companies adopt digital transformation strategies and the workforce gap widens, the industry will eventually arrive there.

Benefits of automating bakery processing line:

Less equipment footprint

It is difficult for processors to increase throughput without extending their facilities. Numerous processors seek to minimize their equipment footprint to fit more equipment within their existing facilities. Due to the fact that automated equipment occupies less space than non-automated equipment of equivalent capacity, firms obtain greater value for their real estate dollar.

Better quality control

Bakeries' clients anticipate that every product that leaves their line is up to par. This is because consistent quality is a crucial determinant of consumer trust in a brand. Repeat customers will not buy overcooked rolls or stuffed crust pizzas with missing stuffing. As fewer off-spec goods must be discarded, automation assures consistency, which boosts throughput by lowering yield loss.

Enhanced food safety

In food processing facilities, humans are a major cause of cross-contamination. Microorganisms and allergens are easily transmitted to food by employees who do not adhere to Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMPs). Even individuals who follow CGMPs can transfer infections into the air by kicking up dust as they move around a facility or push bins and carts. By removing individuals from the processing equation, automation eliminates the risk of cross-contamination produced by humans.