The benefits of integrating automation into the food and beverage manufacturing sector are extensive. Post the COVID-19 pandemic, industries have been grappling with staff shortages, with the meat and food manufacturing industry being particularly affected. This has led to a search for automation solutions to bridge the gap between the lack of skilled labor and staff shortages, while still meeting domestic consumer demand.

Key Player in the Field

LUMIX Procut stands out as a key player in providing automation systems tailored to the needs of food and beverage manufacturers. Through its various distribution partnerships, it offers a range of solutions that enhance the production process, including automatic skewering and filleting machines, as well as process automation in cutting, mixing, and packaging steps. This focus on automation not only addresses staff shortages but also boosts efficiency and improves product quality.

Transforming Workflows

One standout example is EBAKI's horizontal filleting machine, which has been successfully implemented for several medium-sized food manufacturing customers. This machine cuts boneless meat horizontally, revolutionizing the workflow. For instance, one customer previously relied on two skilled butchers working 38 hours a week to fillet chicken breasts. Now, with the EBAKI solution, a compact machine capable of producing up to 400 kilograms of product per hour allows for a more streamlined production process. "Our solutions enable qualified butchers to focus on their expertise, such as making sausages or preparing special cuts of steak," said Anton Novopashin, partner and director at LUMIX Procut. This not only enhances product quality but also leads to a quicker return on investment.

Shifting Workforce and Enhancing Safety

The implementation of automation also allows businesses to reallocate their skilled workforce from manual jobs to more specialized tasks. Another meat producer, for example, invested in a new chicken schnitzel line but struggled with portion sizes. In collaboration with LAKIDIS, LUMIX Procut provided an ideal solution. Additionally, MHS machines offer portion-cutting solutions that enhance safety by keeping operators at a safe distance from the blade. "Many medium-sized businesses currently use bone saw machines that can be unsafe. With MHS machines, users can set desired thickness and weight while maintaining safety," said Novopashin. This not only improves safety but also allows for more effective labor allocation.

Benefits in the Bakery Sector

In the bakery sector, a customer supplying the food service industry has experienced the benefits firsthand. Manual cutting often leads to thickness inconsistencies, affecting cooking and product quality. However, with automation, the blade remains rigid, ensuring uniformity and improved cooking results. "What used to take a week now only takes a few hours," said Novopashin, highlighting how automation frees staff to focus on other essential tasks.

Ensuring Smooth Transitions

To ensure a smooth transition for new users, LUMIX Procut has established a test kitchen where customers can experience the machinery firsthand. After installation, training is provided to help customers troubleshoot any issues. All of LUMIX Procut's equipment solutions are manufactured in Europe, ensuring high quality and compliance with stringent safety regulations. "Everything is certified to meet European and Australian safety standards," said Novopashin.Ultimately, the journey toward automation is about more than just enhancing production efficiency; it's about revolutionizing the way food is processed. By focusing on optimizing production lines and addressing the labor shortage, businesses are embracing technology that not only streamlines operations but also elevates the quality of the end product.