f you’re running a small or mid-sized food processing business, you might know it’s time to move beyond spreadsheets, paper records, or outdated tools, but how do you know where to start? With digital technology seeming to move at lightspeed, you’re not alone.
Let's explore what food processing software actually does, why it matters, and how other businesses like yours are using it successfully.
Most food processors don’t need a massive, all-in-one system to start. You can see and experience great advantages with small changes:
You can gradually build a system to meet the unique needs of your processing plant, and, when you’re ready, you can integrate an ERP to support planning and optimize management.
Some software is included with machines, some works at a process level, while still more operates at the business level to connect your whole operation, from receiving to distribution of finished goods.
Think of software as an assistant, just a digital one. Depending on the type of software you install, it can help you:
Many small and mid-sized processors start small, tracking batches, improving control of one process, or digitizing records. Over time, they grow into more features like forecasting and cost control.
See how other food manufacturers got started
Costs depend on what you need, but there are affordable options designed specifically for food processing. You don’t need a million-dollar investment to see real benefits. Subscription-based models give you predictable monthly or yearly costs instead of large upfront investments, and mean your software always has the latest security updates.
To understand return on investment (ROI) time, consider where the right software can save.
Yes! Modern food processing software is designed for busy teams who don’t sit at a desk. Most come with simple, customizable dashboards and mobile-friendly screens for use on the processing floor.
You don’t need to hire a tech person; a good provider will offer training and offer full support.
This depends on your current set up – for example, do you have old software systems to integrate. But many processors are up and running in a few weeks, not months. Sitting down with your provider and working out a plan will offer a clearer idea of implementation timelines. Good software is designed to work with your team and your business, not against it.
In short, yes modern food processing software is safe. But this is an important question, especially in the current environment of cyber-attacks.
Reputable providers work with you to keep your business protected with secure cloud storage and strong privacy protections. They can also help you understand where risks can occur so you can make efforts to improve the protection of all your computer systems, not just the food processing software.
Good food processing software grows with you, with regular updates and subscription models available, what you invest in today will still be working for you years into the future. Software systems can scale as and when you need it, you can start with one solution this year and connect more as you grow.
Choose software specifically designed for food processing, not just any manufacture. Food processing businesses have unique needs to ensure food safety, tracking, and compliance. A provider who specializes understands your business can offer you the right software, but also the best support.
You’re not alone. Thousands of small and mid-sized food processors are seeing and experiencing the advantages food processing software can bring to their businesses by directly addressing challenges from:
Book a no obligation consultation with JBT Marel experts. With over 40 years' experience providing, designing and supporting food processing solutions to every industry, we have the knowledge to support you as you move toward the digital future.