drinktec 2013 covers spectrum of process hygiene

In beverage and liquids food production, the microbiological and hygienic demands are very high. Sensitive products in particular need to stay in prime condition for a long time and meet rigorous quality and sustainability standards. In future these standards are expected to rise still further, as natural and human resources will be utilised more sparingly Just how these differing demands are to be met will be shown at drinktec, the World′s Leading Trade Fair for the Beverage and Liquid Food Industry, which takes place from September 16 to 20, 2013, in the exhibition halls in Munich.

“Designing and building machinery and plant in line with the requirements of hygienic design is an absolute must in our sector, says Richard Clemens, who is managing director of the conceptual sponsor of drinktec, the Food and Packaging Machinery Manufacturers Association (Fachverband Nahrungsmittelmaschinen und Verpackungsmaschinen), affiliated in the VDMA (Germany′s engineering federation). There are clear requirements for the implementation of hygienic design. These include an engineering design that is as simple as possible, access to all surfaces, no unnecessary surfaces, no hidden 'dead' spaces or roughness, and all liquids should be able to run off freely. Of continued importance is the use of materials that have outstanding process and cleaning characteristics with regard to surface structure and temperature and chemicals resistance – from the smallest seal through to the largest tank.

According to Mr Clemens, hygienically designed technology optimised for production processes offers more than just microbiological safety: "Product safety, i.e. protection of the consumer, is of course the main focus. But the hygienic design of process, filling and packaging systems also offers benefits in terms of efficiency: easy-to-clean surfaces and components will save on water, cleaning agents and energy. The total time spent on cleaning is shorter. And that means longer production times and increased efficiency of the systems technology."

The importance of ongoing hygiene monitoring

Standards will sbalerínky