NORD is extending hygienic drive options for primary packaging lines. NXD tupH surface treatment gives aluminium drive systems a food-safe, corrosion-resistant surface for wash-down areas.
Cambrian has launched barrier buckets for food packaging applications commercially. The range offers an alternative to tin containers, with internal barrier protection, lower transport weight, and recycled-content options.
PET bottle blowing efficiency has improved through pneumatic redesign work. IMI’s Industrial Automation sector has developed a bespoke blowing block solution for Tech-Long, increasing PET bottling capacity by 10% while reducing compressed air consumption.
Hygienic flow measurement is becoming more connected, cleanable, and maintenance-light. ifm electronic has launched SU Puresonic Hygienic ultrasonic flow meters for food and beverage processes, with stainless steel measuring tubes, CIP and SIP compatibility, and IO-Link integration.
Synbiotic development is becoming more structured, targeted, and data led. Tate & Lyle and APC Microbiome Ireland have developed the Synbiotic Potential Score to identify stronger pairings between probiotic strains and prebiotic fibres earlier in product development.
Functional inks are now taking on more packaging barrier work. Siegwerk has launched CIRKIT OXYBAR WHITE, combining oxygen protection and opaque white print functionality in one layer for recyclable flexible packaging structures.
Moulded fibre production is moving into higher-capacity packaging systems globally. Valmet has launched 3D Fiber technology for industrial production of three-dimensional fibre-based packaging, including lightweight trays, plates, and food packaging applications.
Recycled polypropylene film is moving deeper into food-contact flexible packaging. PureCycle Technologies and Innovia Films have produced white cavitated BOPP film with more than 40% post-consumer recycled content for confectionery, snacks, frozen novelties, and roll-fed labels.
James Jones & Sons has been fined over safety failings. A worker suffered severe injuries after becoming trapped in a pallet-processing machine.
ABB has expanded its ACS580 drive range for washdown zones. The new variants target harsh food, beverage, and agricultural environments exposed to humidity, dust, splashing, and cleaning agents.