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< Previous66 Products Recalled Due to FSA Investigation of Mustard Contamination The Food Standards Agency (FSA), in collaboration with Food Standards Scotland (FSS), is spearheading a thorough investigation into potential contamination of mustard ingredients with peanuts within the food supply chain. The FSA issued urgent allergy advice, following extensive analysis of the food chain. Ongoing investigations by both the FSA and FSS have pinpointed the contaminated mustard ingredients to three specific suppliers located in India. These suppliers have distributed their products to three spice companies in the UK, including FGS Ingredients Ltd and two other firms. Consequently, these companies have supplied the contaminated mustard ingredients to various entities across manufacturing, hospitality, and retail sectors. European Commission to Contest China’s Dairy Investigation at WTO The European Commission is set to contest China’s anti-subsidy investigation into EU dairy products at the World Trade Organization (WTO). This decision signifies Brussels’ commitment to protect the interests of the EU dairy sector and the Common Agricultural Policy against what it deems as abusive proceedings. Recently, China declared that it initiated an investigation into subsidies associated with dairy imports from the EU, a move that has been interpreted as part of an escalating trade dispute between the two regions. This announcement closely followed the EU’s imposition of additional tariffs on Chinese electric vehicle imports, highlighting a response to ongoing trade tensions. The situation has already led China to launch an anti- dumping investigation into selected pork and pig by- products from the EU, covering the period from January 1, 2023, to December 31, 2023. Tiffin Sandwiches, a prominent convenience food supplier, is set to expand its operations with a new manufacturing site in the UK, projected to generate approximately 400 new jobs. The new facility will be established in Bradford, the same city that currently hosts Tiffin’s existing production and distribution center, along with its commercial offices. The company specializes in providing sandwiches, wraps, panini, and salads to the hospitality sector. To realize this project, Tiffin is investing between £8 million and £10 million (approximately $10.6 million to $13.3 million) into the new plant, which will be located adjacent to its current site on Commondale Way. Additionally, Tiffin operates another manufacturing location in Chester, situated in the northwest of England. According to Luke Tetley, Tiffin’s operations manager, this investment will primarily fund the construction of the new plant. The land for the facility has already been secured for roughly £2.5 million, while equipment costs could reach an additional £5 million. Tiffin Sandwiches Set to Generate 400 Jobs with New Food Manufacturing Facility in the UK NEWS FOODANDBEVERAGE.BUSINESS • 10Krones is known for its robust production solutions that handle millions of glass bottles, cans, and PET containers daily, with major manufacturing customers like Coca-Cola and Heineken. In the high- speed world of beverage production, every second of machine downtime means potential revenue loss. To mitigate this, Krones has integrated a fleet of nearly 50 UltiMaker 3D printers across more than 10 locations to streamline the production of spare parts. Rapid prototyping has allowed Krones to optimize parts more effectively. 3D-printed components are not only more cost-effective but also lighter and customizable in various materials, catering to specific needs like flexibility or ESD-safety. Traditional methods of outsourcing prototypes and parts manufacturing were time-consuming and costly, often taking weeks. With UltiMaker’s 3D printers, Krones can now produce prototypes in a matter of hours, accelerating design iterations and improving part performance and durability. The benefits of 3D printing have also allowed Krones to utilize it as a valuable service, providing on- demand spare part production directly to customers. Bernd Baldauf, Head of Global eBusiness - Global Digital Content Management - Global 3D Customer Solutions, at Krones, adds, “Our goal is to grow closer to our customers and become their solution partner. Providing rapid, high-quality parts on demand, and continuously improving our service offerings in Krones quality. With UltiMaker’s innovative solutions, we’re well on our way to achieving that.” Krones’ approach to spare parts management now includes on-site 3D printing through its online Krones. shop. Customers can order necessary parts, which are then produced locally using UltiMaker printers. This system drastically reduces delivery times from weeks to days or even hours, minimizing production line downtime and reducing the need for extensive spare parts inventory. The recent addition of the UltiMaker Factor 4 printer has further expanded Krones’ capabilities. The Factor 4’s advanced features, including a direct drive printhead and high-temperature printing capabilities, enable the production of more durable and flexible parts. This printer supports materials such as UltiMaker’s PPS CF, which can substitute for PEEK or steel, pushing the boundaries of 3D printing innovation. Johannes Karl, Head of Customer 3D Solutions at Krones, highlights the significance of the Factor 4: “We’re excited about the potential of the Factor 4. The Factor 4 has taken our capabilities to the next level. With support for stronger and more durable materials, we’re able to produce parts that are not only tougher but also offer greater flexibility with softer materials.” Ensuring the quality of 3D-printed parts is a top priority for Krones. The company has developed custom materials and print profiles for each part, ensuring that every spare meets rigorous Krones quality standards. The integration of UltiMaker’s secure and versatile 3D printing ecosystem supports Krones in maintaining high- quality standards and data protection. Read the full story here: https:// ultimaker.com/learn/krones- optimized-3d-printed-parts-spares-for- customers-anywhere/ ULTIMAKER 3D FOODANDBEVERAGE.BUSINESS • 11 Krones Leverages UltiMaker 3D Printing Ecosystem for On-Demand Spare Part Production Leveraging the UltiMaker 3D printing ecosystem, Krones, a global manufacturer of complete systems for breweries, beverage bottlers, and food producers, has significantly enhanced its operational efficiency and improved spare parts production for customers.IMPORTY & EXPORT T he start of 2024 saw a slight decline in the value of Irish food, drink, and horticulture exports, which fell by 4% to €16.3 billion. This decrease followed record increases in value and volume during 2022. Despite the downturn, the industry managed to retain most of its gains from the previous year. However, high input costs and shifts in global commodity demands have posed obstacles for Irish exporters. The challenges were further compounded by extreme weather conditions and a cost-of-living crisis that curtailed consumer spending in several key export markets. Even so, a report by Bord Bia, the Irish Food Board, reveals that most Irish food and drink exporters remain optimistic about achieving growth in 2024. Confidence is particularly strong in European and American markets, with nearly 70% of exporters expecting some level of expansion in the coming year. This positive sentiment is echoed in ifac’s seventh annual Food & Agribusiness Report, which highlights that Ireland’s food and beverage industry has long prioritized exports due to the limitations of its small domestic market. This focus on international markets is crucial for continued growth and success. Recent reports show that while the sector faced challenges in 2023, the outlook for 2024 remains optimistic, with businesses eyeing both established and emerging markets for expansion. Boosting Global Presence 14 a FOODANDBEVERAGE.BUSINESS • 12FOODANDBEVERAGE.BUSINESS • 0expanding internationally is a top priority for Irish agrifood small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Over two-thirds of the companies surveyed are focused on exporting to reach new customers, and 41% see entering new markets as the primary growth opportunity in the next 12 months. Government support has been instrumental in aiding these efforts, with 61% of businesses utilizing Irish government grants and resources. Trade missions and fairs have also played a significant role, as 32% of businesses attended such events in the past year. However, exporting is not without its complexities. About half of the companies surveyed identified market entry and distribution as the biggest hurdles to sales outside of Ireland. The primary markets for Irish exports include Northern Ireland and the European Union (EU), followed by Great Britain. Emerging markets in South America, Asia, and the Middle East are also becoming increasingly significant, driven by changing consumer preferences and expanding economies. Strategic Market Expansion and Global Reach Recent milestones underscore the growing attractiveness of certain regions for Irish exports. For instance, the value of Irish exports to Arab countries increased by 6% during the first quarter of 2024, reaching €731 million compared to the same period in 2023, according to the Arab-Irish Chamber of Commerce (AICC). Saudi Arabia remains the largest importer of Irish goods among Arab states, while the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has shown the greatest growth. With a population exceeding 440 million and four airline carriers providing direct access, the Arab region presents immense opportunities for Irish businesses. South Korea is another market that has recently opened its doors to Irish goods. The country, one of the world’s largest beef importers, welcomed Irish beef in May, bringing the number of international markets for Irish beef to over 70. South Korea, with its high per-capita beef consumption of 17 kg annually, was designated as a priority market by the Irish government. After years of negotiations and rigorous application processes, Irish beef is now poised to tap into the growing Korean demand for high-quality, grass-fed meat. Bord Bia research shows that Korean consumers associate beef consumption with health benefits, particularly for its high protein content, which has been linked to boosting immunity. This makes Irish beef, with its grass- fed and premium quality credentials, a strong contender in the Korean market. Government Initiatives and Industry Growth The Irish government has played an active role in securing new FOODANDBEVERAGE.BUSINESS • 14markets for its agrifood sector. Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue, emphasized the strategic importance of South Korea as a market for Irish beef, noting that the government has been working diligently to secure access through trade missions and diplomatic channels. Minister of State with responsibility for New Market Development, Martin Heydon, highlighted the enormous potential for Irish agri-food exporters in the Korean market, with beef consumption projected to grow by 1% annually over the next four years. Given that South Korea is only 35% self-sufficient in beef production, it relies heavily on imports, presenting a prime opportunity for Irish exporters to meet the country’s sizeable demand. Similarly, efforts are underway to access other markets such as Vietnam and Thailand. With South Korea’s acceptance of Irish beef paving the way, the government is optimistic that these new markets will follow suit, further expanding the reach of Ireland’s agrifood exports. Expanding Horizons and Future Goals Ireland’s reputation as a leader in agrifood exports is well- established, with its products reaching more than 180 countries worldwide. Over the last decade, the country has significantly expanded its export footprint, driven by a commitment to quality and sustainability. The Food Vision 2030 strategy aims to achieve at least €21 billion in agrifood exports by 2030, an ambitious target that seems within reach given the recent successes in gaining access to new markets and the strong support from government bodies such as Bord Bia and Enterprise Ireland. The country’s ability to adapt to changing market conditions and capitalize on new opportunities has been key to its success. The emphasis on sustainability and high-quality food production has earned Ireland a positive perception globally, with its products considered premium compared to competitors. As the global food industry becomes more focused on transparency and sustainability, Ireland is well-positioned to continue its growth trajectory and reinforce its status as a leading exporter in the food and beverage sector. Despite recent challenges, Ireland’s food and beverage industry remains focused on expanding its global presence. With strong government support, strategic market expansions, and a continued emphasis on quality, the sector is poised for continued growth. The country’s commitment to sustainability and innovation will ensure that Irish products remain competitive in established and emerging markets, solidifying its position as a global leader in agrifood exports. FOODANDBEVERAGE.BUSINESS • 15MIXING & BLENDING FOODANDBEVERAGE.BUSINESS • 16MIXING & BLENDING FOODANDBEVERAGE.BUSINESS • 17 Mixing and blending are essential processes in food production, ensuring that ingredients are thoroughly combined to achieve the desired texture, consistency, and appearance. As technology advances, these processes continue to evolve, offering manufacturers greater efficiency, precision, and control over product quality. Choosing the right machinery for mixing or blending is crucial for optimizing production processes and meeting both industry standards and consumer expectations. A lthough mixing and blending are often used interchangeably, they refer to distinct processes that require different equipment and techniques. Mixing typically involves breaking down and combining ingredients using an agitator to create a smooth, homogeneous consistency. This method is ideal for blending wet and dry components, as seen in baking where flour, eggs, and liquids are combined to form a consistent batter or dough. Blending, on the other hand, is a gentler process aimed at evenly distributing dry ingredients in a liquid medium without applying excessive force. The choice between these methods depends on the type of ingredients and the desired product outcome. The key difference between mixing and blending lies in the intensity of the mechanical action. Mixing typically involves higher shear forces that thoroughly combine disparate materials, while blending is used for more delicate handling of ingredients that don’t require much force. This distinction is crucial when choosing the right machinery for the job. Different products demand different levels of mechanical intensity to achieve the desired texture or consistency without damaging the product’s integrity. For example, high-shear mixers are used for emulsification, where a stable mixture of ingredients like oil and water is essential, while tank bottom mixers are suited for thick, viscous substances that require powerful mechanical action. In recent years, advancements in mixing and blending technology have significantly improved efficiency and product quality in food production. High-shear mixers, such as vertical or inline mixers, offer precise control over the mixing process and are highly effective at producing stable emulsions. Modern emulsification equipment has become more efficient and cost-effective, with improved designs that prevent product separation and ensure a uniform texture. For more delicate blending needs, industrial blenders equipped with gentle, low-shear mechanisms can handle powders, granules, and other sensitive ingredients with minimal impact on their structure. 18 aChoosing the right equipment is essential for optimizing production processes. High-shear mixers are ideal for achieving emulsification or when blending heat- sensitive materials that require minimal mechanical action. Their ability to produce uniform emulsions makes them invaluable in applications like mayonnaise production, where a smooth, glossy texture is crucial. On the other hand, for viscous products that are difficult to mix, tank bottom mixers provide the necessary force and hydraulic shearing to ensure consistency, even for the thickest ingredients. Blending is commonly used for combining dry ingredients such as powdered milk, sugar, or salt into liquids. Table blenders are highly effective for dissolving these solids, and for more complex applications like mixing pectin into glucose for jam production, table blenders equipped with recirculation tanks offer better control and assurance that the mixture will be free of lumps. Similarly, horizontal blenders are ideal for handling smaller quantities of less viscous materials, providing a solution for applications where space is limited, and efficiency is critical. As technology in mixing and blending continues to advance, equipment manufacturers have prioritized hygiene, energy efficiency, and digital controls. Modern machines are designed with easy-to-clean surfaces and advanced automation features that allow manufacturers to precisely control speed, temperature, and mixing time. This ensures consistent results, reduces human error, and enhances overall product quality. By selecting the right equipment and embracing these technological innovations, food manufacturers can optimize their production lines, ensuring efficiency and quality while meeting the evolving demands of the market. FOODANDBEVERAGE.BUSINESS • 18SILVERSON MACHINES FOODANDBEVERAGE.BUSINESS • 19 One of the most versatile mixers on the market, Silverson high shear rotor/ stator In-Line mixers have the ability to form stable emulsions, de-agglomerate, reduce particle and droplet sizes and blend powdered and liquid ingredients. The rotor/stator workhead is impossible to bypass, so all material is subjected to high shear as it passes through the workhead. Before now some of the more specialised mixers in the Silverson range have only been available as a production- scale model or as a benchtop laboratory unit. With the addition of 3 new small- scale In-Line mixers to the product range, Silverson can now offer customers more options in terms of batch sizes and processing requirements. 150 UHS small-scale In-Line mixer The 150 UHS In-Line has been designed for Ultra Hygienic applications and built to the same high specification as production scale UHS mixers. Ideal for batches of up to 50 litres, the mixer features a range of interchangeable workheads and screens, offering intense yet targeted high shear capability; a conversion kit allowing it to be used as a Multistage 088/150 is available. As with all Silverson UHS models, the mixer can be supplied with data dossier documentation packages conforming to all regulatory standards, for example, cGMP and FDA and EC1935/2004. 088/150 UHS small-scale Multistage In-Line mixer The 088/150 UHS is the first small-scale Multistage In-Line mixer from Silverson Machines. Matching the capabilities of production scale Multistage In-Line mixers, these mixers increase the number of shearing actions per revolution of the rotor, resulting in substantially faster mixing times and increasing the number of products that can be processed in a single pass. The Multistage workhead also allows customers to configure the mixer to their individual requirements. Depending on the desired results the stators can be a number of different combinations which can be quickly and easily changed to optimise processing and increase mixing versatility. UHS-HV small-scale In-Line mixer For small scale manufacturing of higher viscosity products, Silverson has developed the 150 UHS-HV, an In-Line mixer which matches the capabilities of the production scale Silverson HV In-Line mixers. It incorporates a unique and innovative “pumping rotor” design that substantially increases the mixer’s self- pumping capacity, ideal for processing higher viscosity products. High flow rates, typically around 6,500 litres/hour are maintained as viscosity rises, often eliminating the need for an additional feed pump. A range of motor options is available, including high speed, which allows the mixer to run at 9,000 rpm. This gives the mixer more power to continually recirculate higher viscosity products in the vessel. Also part of the latest launch is a new small-scale powder/liquid mixer, the FMX10, which provides a simple, effective and hygienic means of powder/liquid mixing, with a batch size of up to 50 litres, depending on viscosity. New small-scale In-Line mixers from Silverson Machines Silverson Machines has launched a new range of small-scale mixers, developed in response to demand for mixers that bridge the gap between the laboratory scale and production scale mixers already available. Phone: +44 (0) 1494 786331 www.silverson.co.ukNext >