Cycle time reduction
Andersson stresses the fact that the system is user-friendly. “Apart from being highly accurate, the fat analysis system is simple to use and easily programmed. Our operators have had no problems whatsoever working with the displays,” he says.
He adds that the fat analysis unit, along with all other processes in the plant, is controlled from their main computer system. For the entire plant, this automation means a reduction in staff of approximately six people per shift compared to their older, manually controlled mixing line.
“Before we purchased our new plant we had way too many operators. Additionally, we experienced problems with cycle times that were too long and lacked capacity. Due to the microwave defrosting on our line for frozen meat, we have achieved considerable capacity improvement through cycle time reduction. What took us three
days before, now takes us half an hour. This has made us more flexible in the sense that we can respond quickly to the needs of our customers,” Sundberg says.
Consumer confidence
Today’s consumers are very concerned with food safety and are demanding accurate and targeted traceability information on the products they buy. At Dafgårds, active and continuous measures are taken to ensure that safety and quality standards are in place.
Christoffer Sundberg adds that “The recipe control system from Marel provides us with complete control of each batch and full traceability of products. Each batch is easily identified, and its process of production tracked and verified.