Blueberries and strawberries – dedicated packing and sorting ...

Soft fruit market: blueberries and strawberries lead the sector

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There is a steady increase in blueberry production in Europe. Spain remains the leader in this market segment, followed by Poland, Portugal, and Germany. The consumption of these berries is also increasing in line with production. While blueberry consumption in the United States has been steady at around 1.5 kg per person, in Europe it is still a growing segment, and it currently reaches less than 0.5 kg per person.

A significant decline in strawberry production was observed in Europe. However, it is still a very strong segment of the soft fruit market. The main reasons for the decline are changing weather conditions and a shortage of workers in harvesting and packing fruit. The production companies and growers increasingly decide to partially automate their production lines, which can significantly reduce the number of employees and the production costs of these fruits.

Investments in evolving technologies

Daifressh, a fruit and vegetable producer and distributor, combines state-of-the-art technology with traditional cultivation methods to increase their productivity and efficiency. Their crops are located in Spain, Poland, and Morocco, which allows them to supply most of their products throughout the year.

Crops in Poland include fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries. In , the company started cooperation with Milbor PMC, an integrator of machines for packing and sorting fresh fruits and vegetables.

We contacted the company’s Regional Manager in Spain and had our first meeting, during which he explained the specifications of the machines and the way Milbor works. He came up with the perfect solution for our needs, says Eva Gil, a consultant at Daifressh. Based on the producer’s needs and problems, a complete 3-step solution for blueberries was designed. First, the fruits are sorted based on two categories: colour and softness. The well-selected blueberries are then weighed and packed into various types of containers using a fully automated packaging machine. The final step is labelling the packages. The line has been designed in such a way that it can be connected to an already standing Traysealer. The integration of the machines undertaken by Milbor allowed the producer to preserve the previously purchased equipment and reduce the cost of the next investment. The dedicated blueberry line has provided Daifressh with greater flexibility in the production process and the ability to pack fruit in a variety of conditions and packaging. In addition, the latest technological solutions allow to b, radically reduce the number of operators in the packing area, and gain full control thanks to the applied automation, which allows to manage the entire line from one place.

Innovative solution for strawberries

In , Daifressh decided to develop another production line – this time for packing strawberries. The partnership and fruitful cooperation prompted the producer to contact Milbor PMC again. We offer complex lines, but we are also able to customise the right solution for the customer. In , Daifressh invested in a complete line for sorting and packing blueberries. During our next collaboration in , we helped the producer find a solution for other soft fruits. We provided Daifressh with a tailor-made strawberry packing line – we proposed a solution to suit their needs based on the problems they presented, explains Maciej Chmielewski, Fresh Produce Sales Director at Milbor PMC. The innovative conveyor system is the first such investment in Poland. Equipment capable of checking the weight of individual packages and correcting them at a later stage significantly speed up the production process and reduce the number of employees needed in the packing room. The large investment in specialised machinery is a response to the growing demand of our customers. We chose the solution proposed by Milbor PMC in order to optimise our packing processes. The advantages of a custom strawberry packing line include, among other things, a significant improvement in productivity and a faster production process. In addition, by eliminating the human aspect, we avoid any possibility of the customer rejecting the product due to incorrect weight, explains a Daifressh consultant.

In soft fruit production, growers also increasingly decide to invest in growing in tunnels. This brings many benefits, the most important of which are the ability to obtain accelerated harvests and to protect the fruit from many weather factors. Last year, we saw a big increase in the sales of strawberries in Poland and abroad. Fruits from our production in Poland are exported mainly to the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Hungary. This year, our company decided to invest in growing strawberries in tunnels. With this type of solution, we will be able to produce more fruit. We estimate that our production volume may even double, informs Łukasz Niechaj, technical specialist at Daifressh. The producer’s investment last year in a dedicated strawberry production line allows for packing more fruit in less time, thus reducing production time and associated costs. Our packing room would not be able to accommodate enough people to pack products without the support of machines. We have a limited working time in which we must complete orders. The machines are faster, thanks to which we save time, space, and the number of people working on a given product, continues Niechaj.

Introduction:

Fruit packing machines play a crucial role in the food industry by automating the process of sorting, grading, and packaging fruits. One of the key challenges fruit packing machines face is handling delicate fruits. Delicate fruits such as berries, grapes, and peaches require extra care to prevent damage during the packing process. In this article, we will explore the various techniques employed by fruit packing machines to handle these delicate fruits and ensure they reach consumers in optimal condition.

The Importance of Handling Delicate Fruits

Delicate fruits, with their soft skins and juicy interiors, require special attention during the packing process. These fruits are prone to bruising, crushing, and other forms of damage if mishandled. Not only does this affect their visual appeal but it can also impact their taste, texture, and shelf life. Therefore, it is essential for fruit packing machines to handle them with utmost care to maintain their quality and maximize their market value.

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1. Gentle Handling Mechanisms

Fruit packing machines equipped with gentle handling mechanisms are designed to minimize the risk of damage to delicate fruits. These mechanisms employ a combination of soft belts, cushioned surfaces, and controlled pressure to handle the fruits carefully. For example, soft belts made of materials like silicone or foam are used to transport delicate fruits without causing any harm. These belts provide a gentle grip while minimizing friction, ensuring the fruits remain intact throughout the packing process.

2. Sensor-Based Sorting Systems

Sensor-based sorting systems are another critical component of fruit packing machines that help handle delicate fruits effectively. These systems use advanced technologies such as cameras, lasers, and infrared sensors to identify and sort fruits based on their size, color, ripeness, and other quality parameters. By accurately identifying delicate fruits, the sorting systems can divert them to specialized packing lines or adjust the packing process accordingly. This ensures that fragile fruits are not subjected to excessive pressure or rough treatment, reducing the risk of damage.

3. Customizable Packing Configurations

The ability to customize packing configurations is a valuable feature of fruit packing machines when it comes to handling delicate fruits. These machines can be adjusted to accommodate various fruit sizes, shapes, and textures, ensuring a tailored packing process for each fruit type. For example, by altering the arrangement of packing trays or the speed of the packing line, the machine can create an optimal environment for packing delicate fruits without compromising their integrity. This flexibility enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of the packing process while maintaining the quality of the fruits.

4. Automated Quality Control Systems

To further ensure the safe handling of delicate fruits, fruit packing machines are equipped with automated quality control systems. These systems use advanced imaging and analysis techniques to detect defects, such as bruising or mold, in real-time. By identifying damaged or unsuitable fruits, the machines can remove them from the packing line before they contaminate the rest of the batch. This not only protects the delicate fruits from further damage but also ensures that only high-quality produce reaches the consumers.

5. Packaging Innovations

In addition to the handling mechanisms, sorting systems, customizable configurations, and quality control systems, fruit packing machines also utilize packaging innovations to protect delicate fruits during transportation and storage. Packaging materials, such as foam nets or cushioned trays, provide an extra layer of protection against physical impact. Moreover, modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) techniques are employed to extend the shelf life of delicate fruits by controlling the level of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and humidity within the packaging. These innovations help preserve the freshness and quality of the fruits until they reach consumers.

In conclusion, fruit packing machines have evolved to handle delicate fruits with utmost care and precision. Through gentle handling mechanisms, sensor-based sorting systems, customizable packing configurations, automated quality control systems, and packaging innovations, these machines ensure that delicate fruits are properly sorted, packed, and protected throughout the packing process. By leveraging advanced technologies and innovative solutions, fruit packing machines play a vital role in maintaining the quality, attractiveness, and taste of delicate fruits from farm to table. So, the next time you enjoy a juicy berry or a succulent peach, you can appreciate the efforts of fruit packing machines in making it possible.

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Weighing Packing lines for soft fruits.