Digital technologies as a trend
Berkers’ analysis strengthens the idea that the Internet of Things (IoT) can support optimization, by observing real-time processes that analyze the results and the main indicators during production – so not a few days later. "Processors are under constant pressure to make quick and complex decisions, and there is a lot of profitability in optimization and collecting data. For this, high-speed processors must have access to computerized systems that provide data from sensors, weighing stations and cameras installed throughout the process and in real-time. This data allows processors to make the most of their equipment.”
With Marel, all systems and equipment of the plant can be prepared for this reality and can even offer a connection with the main ERP systems used in the plant.
Production efficiency
Marel sees great business opportunities for advanced processing equipment throughout the Latin American region, with an emphasis on the Brazilian market. As Berkers explains, the company can provide an automatic replacement for almost all manual operations at a processing plant. "Higher line speeds would be the fastest step towards greater production efficiency. However, there are still many other opportunities to automate processes.”
According to Berkers, a good example to be applied in the Latin American market is Marel's ATLAS live bird management system. “It is a total concept for humane broiler transport from shed to shackle, which can mean a real revolution for the Brazilian industry”, he says.
A new trend in the United States, focused on the fresh meat retail market, is air chilling. “Sooner or later, this should also be an interesting concept for Brazil, especially for companies with a strong focus on retail sales to large cities. In this case, it’s about producing a more tender and water-free final product with a long shelf life", says Ruud Berkers.
A data-driven approach to facilitate easier decision-making would also considerably increase productive efficiency in Brazil, according to Berkers.
The processing industry needs to quickly decide on complex issues, combining a huge number of products with the ordering requirements. In addition, he explains that the quality of the product should be optimal to avoid complaints and risk of recalls. "Quality control, food safety and traceability through highly accurate digital tools, such as Marel's Innova food processing software, reduce the pressure on processors. By implementing data-driven processes, long and short-term planning becomes more structured”, says Berkers.
Available innovations
Processing plants have at their disposal an increasing number of technologies aiming at greater efficiency to all their processes. Marel invests about 6% of revenue in innovation each year. "In Brazil, Marel is renowned for its performance-focused cutting and filleting systems and its Nuova automatic evisceration system - the heart of all processing plants.” The company continues to introduce innovations. “Driven by global animal well-being trends, we have set innovative standards for live bird handling. The ATLAS system and the CAS SmoothFlow controlled atmosphere stunning system ensure highest levels of efficiency, sustainability and animal well-being. All this can be combined with the highest processing speeds available, at 15,000 bph," concludes Ruud Berkers.