Automation : More than just efficiency
Trends in the Packaging Industry
Automation : More than just efficiency
Automation is no longer just a tool for increasing efficiency ; it brings extensive benefits to the entire production process . During times of labour shortages , automation offers a solution to optimize workflows while ensuring favourable working conditions . Automated systems not only help minimize human error and increase production speed but also play a crucial role in conserving resources .
Implementing automation technology can significantly reduce energy consumption and the amount of production space needed . This not only makes production more cost-effective but also helps reduce the ecological footprint . Additionally , automated processes allow for the manufacture of more durable machine components , which reduces material requirements and minimizes waste . Automation , therefore , is not only a response to labour market challenges but also a critical step towards more sustainable and eco-friendly production .
Our latest developments are focused on packaging efficiency optimisation , we have developed packaging machines for confectionery products , which are able to replace many packaging units due to their capacity . For example , our machines for double twist of chocolate candies can pack the products with the speed up to 1 800 candies per minute or hard caramel candies with the speed up to 2 300 products per minute . Such machinery saves power and packaging material consumption , production space and do not require to keep huge amount of the spare parts and require minimum labour force . One of our automation innovations is a robot-assisted packing head cleaning system that opens new possibilities in production , such as in the manufacture of confectionery with beneficial additives . In these areas , it is crucial to prevent foreign substances , even in trace amounts ,
42 FDPP - www . fdpp . co . uk from entering the products . With this innovation , we offer our customers not only greater efficiency but also maximum product safety .
Environmental Friendliness : An Ethical and Political Necessity
Environmental sustainability has become a pervasive topic in today ’ s packaging industry . Manufacturers worldwide are increasingly required to transition to packaging that is recyclable , compostable , or biodegradable . This shift is driven not only by regulatory requirements , such as European , American , and UK environmental standards , but also by the growing ethical awareness among consumers .
The goals of these initiatives are clear : they seek not only to reduce waste but also to create infrastructure for so-called “ circular ” materials . This allows raw materials to remain in circulation and creates new jobs , benefiting both the environment and the economy .
Consumer Behaviour : Ethics at the Forefront
Interestingly , the shift to ecofriendly packaging is being driven not only by governments and regulators but also by consumers . According to recent market research , more and more consumers are making purchasing decisions based on ethical criteria . Products manufactured with ecological and social standards are gaining importance .
Consumers today are paying attention not only to the price or quality of a product but also to its environmental impact . Environmental certifications and labels , such as “ carbon neutral ” or “ produced with alternative energy sources ,” are crucial factors for many buyers . A product ’ s packaging plays a central role , as it reflects how seriously a company takes its environmental responsibility . Packaging trends are most evident in labelling symbols , especially on confectionery items , which increasingly convey information on how the product was manufactured .
New Legislation in Europe and the USA : Efficient Use of Packaging Space
In recent years , regulatory requirements for packaging have become significantly stricter in Europe and the USA . These new laws address not only the materials used in packaging but also their efficient use of space .
A key focus of this legislation is the optimization of packaging space . The European Directive 94 / 62 / EC , as well as international standards like OIML R 87 “ Quantity of product in prepackages ” and OIML D9 “ Principles of Metrological Supervision ”, set strict requirements for fill levels within packaging . A primary aspect of these regulations is the control of “ slack fill ,” meaning that unused space within packaging must be minimized wherever possible .
According to these guidelines , having unutilized space in packaging is nearly prohibited . The purpose is to reduce waste and optimize resource use . Consequently , there are increasing legislative recommendations for minimizing empty space and improving spatial efficiency in packaging .
These new regulations aim to encourage the packaging industry toward more responsible resource management and reduce environmental impact . Manufacturers and packaging designers are urged to develop innovative solutions that maximize the available space within packages and increase the overall efficiency of packaging processes .
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