Processing

11th Annual Replacement Parts Survey

Replacement Parts Survey: Advancing inventory practices

While cutting costs drives innovation in product sourcing and inventory management, processors are demanding higher-quality spare parts.

Mikell Knights

July 3, 2013

Food and beverage plants spent less on replacement parts and components in 2013 and are focused on lower inventories and competitive pricing as key business drivers, based on replies from industry professionals in Food Engineering’s 11th Annual Replacement Parts and Components Trends Survey.

TECH FLASH

Survey says: Process manufacturers still confused about FSMA

Many respondents have not budgeted for FSMA-required upgrades, and about half are unsure how the regulations will affect them.

Shane O'Halloran

June 26, 2013

FDA estimates new regulations will cost the average factory around $13,000 and will be enforced with new powers to fine, initiate recalls or shut down noncompliant businesses.

TECH FLASH

Methods to curb energy rate increases

Many processors have already switched out inefficient lighting and invested in high-efficiency motors, and some have tried demand control while others have instituted real-time purchasing of energy.

Wayne Labs

June 26, 2013

FE interviewed Brian Flynn, chief technology officer of ZF Energy Development, to discuss the options processors have in cutting energy costs.

As consumers seek to buy local, specialty foods markets grow

Demand for geographic and other information about fresh foods hasn’t decreased in a down economy.

Shane O'Halloran

June 26, 2013

Unless they know exactly where it was grown, many consumers turn their nose up at a fresh fruit or vegetable.https://admin-foodengineeringmag.epublishing.com/admin/article/general/load?articleId=90940#

Plant Construction

36th Annual Plant Construction Survey

The push for ROI

Wayne Labs

June 12, 2013

FSMA, energy reductions and efficiency are changing the way plants operate, and some older sites may need more than a facelift.

TECH FLASH

CDC says trans fat reduction efforts slowed over time

Progress varied by food type and parent company.

June 12, 2013

Because consuming trans fat is harmful even at low levels, researchers urged manufacturers to renew efforts to discontinue or reformulate products containing them.

Food Automation & Manufacturing Conference report

FA&M Conference Report

Innovating risk assessment and world-class best practices

Mikell Knights

June 6, 2013

Food and beverage manufacturers will need revolutionary manufacturing methods to promote and sustain growth. A better understanding of core competencies and capabilities can take you further.

TECH FLASH

Inspection technologies keep pace with new processor demands

Various food production sectors require unique inspection technologies.

Shane O'Halloran

May 28, 2013

As the regulatory landscape evolves, these technologies will provide additional applications for food and beverage production.https://admin-foodengineeringmag.epublishing.com/admin/article/general/load?articleId=90752#

TECH FLASH