How conveyor belts increase efficiency in food and beverage manufacturing
As in any other industry, automation increases efficiency. In the food and beverage industry, conveyor belts mean staff don't have to transport food manually. As goods move through a factory floor, they'll be processed in various ways. That includes refinement and extraction for beverage production, and perhaps even cooking for food. At the end of some production lines, food will also be packaged for distribution. Conveyor belts automate these systems, meaning you'll achieve consistent results every time.
If staff handle food and beverages, the time it takes for the whole process to complete will be inconsistent. It will also expose staff members to certain risks of injury. That includes injuries while carrying heavy loads, which studies show to be the cause of over one third of workplace injuries.
How conveyor belts make the food and beverage industry more hygienic
Conveyor belts are a more hygienic option than manual handling or vehicle transportation because they reduce the contact time between staff members and food. In today’s day and age, we are more conscious than ever of the harmful bacteria and viruses that we carry in our body. Reducing the risk of contaminating food with contagious microbes is a major benefit of conveyor belts.
Conveyor belts also reduce the risk of cross-contamination between different food and beverage products. For example, a study from 2019 showed that using conveyor belts significantly reduced the risk of contamination compared to other forms of transport. It also found that conveyor belts made it easier to clean and sanitize the production area, which further reduced the risk of contamination.
Conveyor belts are typically made of materials that are easy to clean, such as stainless steel or food-suitable plastic. It’s also difficult for bacteria to adhere to the surface of conveyor belts, since they are designed to be smooth and seamless. Conveyor belts also have fewer crevices and joints than other types of equipment, which reduces the risk of bacterial growth and makes them easier to clean.
Conveyor belts from Conveyor Lines
At Conveyor Lines, we specialise in designing and manufacturing conveyor belts for many different industries, including the food and beverage industry. Flexible, hygienic, and seamless, our conveyor belts can be modified to suit the needs of various food and beverage production lines. If you’re interested in working with us to install a new conveyor belt on your production line, give us a call on +44 (0)1604 762672, send an e-mail to [email protected], or fill out our inquiry form below.