< Previous40 Food & Drink International www.fdiforum.net CLEAN AIR SOLUTIONS perform, how efficient we can be, and how healthy we are – the same holds true for workers in any factory. Food manufacturing facilities are required to adhere to strict food safety regulations in order to produce safe, high-quality products. One important aspect of these regulations is the control and maintenance of clean air in the factory. Whilst this might sound like a no brainer, there is actually considerable merit to giving some thought to optimising factory ventilation systems. Ensuring breathable air in manufacturing settings also goes hand in hand with PPE and evaluating whether current supplies are fit for purpose. There are several ways that food manufacturers can maintain clean air in their factories. One of the most effective methods is through the use of air filtration systems. These systems work by pulling in outside air and running it through a series of filters to remove dust, dirt, and other contaminants. The cleaned air is then circulated throughout the factory, helping to keep the air inside the facility clean and safe for both workers and products. Air filtration systems are well suited to large factory spaces, and for especially dusty environments. Another way that food manufacturers can maintain clean air in their factories is through the use of air purification systems. These systems use advanced technologies such as ultraviolet (UV) light and ozone to kill bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms that may be present in the air. This is especially important in areas of the factory where food is being processed or packaged, as these microorganisms can pose a significant risk to the safety of the finished product. UV air purifiers are generally best for localised use, such as near workstations, and therefore should be considered when working with potential contaminants (such as raw meat). As these emit UV light, which can cause damage to the eye, face shields may need to be considered for those working closely alongside them. In addition to air filtration and purification systems, manufacturing facilities should also be taking steps to reduce the amount of dust and other contaminants that are generated within the factory. This may involve implementing good housekeeping practices, such as regularly sweeping and cleaning floors and equipment. It may also involve Food & Drink International 41 www.fdiforum.net CLEAN AIR SOLUTIONS investing in specialized equipment, such as dust collectors and ventilation systems, to help control the spread of dust and other contaminants throughout the factory. Another important aspect of maintaining clean air in a food manufacturing facility is ensuring that proper hygiene and personal protective equipment (PPE) are being used by workers. This may include the use of masks, gloves, and other protective clothing to help reduce the risk of contaminating products with bacteria or other microorganisms. The implementation of PPE should also involve regular sanitisation of workstations to prevent materials from contaminating the environment. In addition to keeping employees and products safe, this reduces the amount of contaminants needing to be filtered out, thus helping to keep the ventilation system in good condition. The PPE market is vast and varied, and it can be difficult to determine which items are best for a particular environment. In terms of masks, surgical grade and particulate respirators are the most common for food and beverage manufacturers. Surgical masks are designed to protect the wearer’s nose and mouth from contact with droplets and other respiratory secretions. They are not designed to protect against inhaling small particles or fumes, so these 42 Á © stock.adobe.com/morico42 Food & Drink International www.fdiforum.net CLEAN AIR SOLUTIONS may not be enough for particularly hazardous raw materials. This is where particulate respirators may be more appropriate. These masks, also known as N95 masks, are designed to filter out small particles and provide a higher level of protection against inhaling dust, fumes, and other small particles. For those handling raw materials, it would also be prudent to consider protective eyewear such as goggles. Raw materials have the potential to secrete dust particles or fumes, which could be detrimental to workers’ health after long term exposure. Finally, it is important for food manufacturers to regularly monitor and test the air quality in their factories to ensure that it is meeting regulatory standards. This may involve using specialized equipment to measure the levels of various contaminants in the air, as well as conducting regular inspections to identify any potential sources of contamination. By regularly monitoring and testing the air quality in their factories, food manufacturers can take swift action to address any issues and ensure that the air remains clean and safe for all workers and products. Having considered some available options, what are the benefits? Improving the work environment for staff has additional benefits. Proper ventilation can help to regulate the temperature and humidity levels in the factory, making it more comfortable for workers. Research shows this can help to increase worker productivity, as employees are more likely to be focused and motivated when they are not being affected by poor air quality or other factors that can impact their health and well-being. Clean air has the additional perk of improving energy efficiency within facilities – an important consideration in the face of rising fuel costs. Proper ventilation can help to regulate the temperature in the factory, reducing the need for heating and cooling systems and potentially lowering energy costs. Clean air and ventilation maintenance is not just desirable – it is entirely necessary. Primarily, this is for the safety of the workers, and ultimately, of the consumers, as it removes the legitimate threat of consumable products being contaminated by dust or other airborne particles. Which system is chosen depends on the nature and scale of manufacturing, but all manufacturers could benefit from implementing a basic air quality testing regime (the frequency of which can be determined by how hazardous the products are – dusty products such as spices will require more frequent testing due to their irritant nature) to prevent employee health risks and generally improve factory working conditions. © stock.adobe.com/ElnurIncorporating Automation Robotics Vision Automation UK 7 – 8 May 2025 Coventry Building Society Arena Automation UK, incorporating Vision UK, is a two-day exhibition that highlights the important role automation, robotics and machine vision play in powering the UK economy. Exhibit at Automation UK to: •Build Ņāīěʇ¿ě¨ûÆʇ¨ûÆʇě¨åğÊʇŅāīěʇĘěāœõÊ •Engage ĿåĦâʇ¿īŅÊěğʇÜěāúʇĦâÊʇJɶğʇõʨÆåûÝʇåûÆīğĦěŅʇğÊÀĦāěğ •Network ĿåĦâʇõåóÊɨúåûÆÊÆʇĘěāÜÊğğåāû¨õğ •Discover ĦâÊʇõ¨ĦÊğĦʇåûÆīğĦěŅʇĦěÊûÆğ automation uk theautomationukautomationukshow automationukshow Scan the QR code to book your stand, or visit automation-uk.co.uk Join the movement... by exhibiting at the UK’s leading event for automation, robotics and machine vision. Book your stand today44 Food & Drink International www.fdiforum.net PACKAGING INNOVATIONS & EMPACK A s the UK’s only annual event dedicated to advancing business and innovation across the entire packaging journey, it offers an unrivalled platform for industry leaders to connect, discover cutting-edge solutions, and gain actionable insights. The two-day event, taking place on 12 & 13 February 2025, spans every stage of the packaging process — from concept and design to production, packing, logistics, and fulfilment. This dynamic event empowers specialists to showcase, debate, and explore the products and services shaping the future of packaging. With more than 430 exhibitors and 7,000 attendees expected, Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025 is where the packaging supply chain converges to connect, collaborate, and discover the technologies shaping tomorrow. From sustainable materials and smart packaging to automation and fulfilment solutions, the show provides an unmatched platform for attendees to explore the innovations they need to stay ahead in an industry defined by rapid change. “As the packaging industry evolves at an unprecedented pace, staying ahead of trends and regulations has become essential,” said James Montero MacColl, Senior Marketing Manager at Easyfairs UK. “Events like Packaging Innovations & Empack are invaluable for discovering new technologies, forming strategic partnerships, and gaining fresh inspiration to meet consumer and environmental demands. This event isn’t just about showcasing products—it’s about bringing the entire supply chain together to create the future of packaging. For over 20 years, the show has connected key players, cutting-edge innovations, and actionable insights critical for business growth.” This year’s show offers a rich and immersive experience featuring specialised zones that address critical sectors of the packaging landscape. The Smart Packaging Zone, brand new for 2025, highlights cutting- edge technologies such as NFC chips, RFID tags, and augmented reality that transform customer engagement and product tracking. The Food Service Zone, created in collaboration with the Foodservice Packaging New Cool-melt Packaging Adhesive Interlock Adhesives announced Henkel’s brand new end of line packaging hotmelt adhesive – the Technomelt Supra 079 Eco Cool. This state of the art hotmelt builds on the success of the Technomelt Supra 081 Eco and is designed to improve process efficiency and reduce CO2 levels. The Technomelt 079 Eco Cool operates up to 40% lower than the standard hotmelt adhesive and combines 49% directly bio based material with 30% ISCC certified mass balanced material to create the ultimate in sustainable adhesives. Boasting high adhesion properties and excellent mileage, the Technomelt 079 Eco Cool helps reduce adhesive consumption by up to 30% amongst other process savings. Sales@interlock-adhesives.co.uk 01724 870 055 www.interlock-adhesives.co.uk The countdown is on until Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025 opens its doors at the NEC Birmingham. Food & Drink International 45 www.fdiforum.net PACKAGING INNOVATIONS & EMPACK VISIT US AT EMPACK ON STAND R20 AND DISCOVER THE IDEAL SOLUTION FOR YOU T01484 715111E Info@yps.co.ukW www.yps.co.uk Materials & machinery for the complete solution Transit & display packaging Fully-recyclable, sustainable, anti-fog, barrier, MAP packaging and more... High-speed equipment for demanding environments Supported by expert engineers, across the UK & Ireland THE RIGHT INGREDIENTS FOR FOOD PACKAGING SUCCESS... Association (FPA), showcases innovations in sustainable, recyclable food packaging, while the Label & Print Zone focuses on advancements in labelling and flexible packaging that enhance branding and compliance. For those navigating the growing demand for outsourced packaging services, the Contract Pack & Fulfilment Zone, powered by BCMPA, connects brands with leading co-packing and e-commerce fulfilment providers. Beyond the show floor, the educational programme promises to inspire and inform, with over 50 speakers sharing insights across three dedicated stages: Circular Economy, Supply Chain, and Innovation. Highlights include Miguel Arevalo of Google, who will share how the tech giant is tackling the challenge of plastic-free packaging, and Tey Bannerman from McKinsey Design, who will explore the transformative role of AI in creative packaging solutions. Attendees will also hear from influential figures like Victoria Brownlie of the British Beauty Council and Lowelle Bryan of WRAP, who will delve into key topics, including reuse systems and sustainable beauty packaging. For more information or to book tickets, visit www.packagingbirmingham.com All-Fill All-Fill can provide constant dynamic feedback on the performance of a filling operation using our proven Active Feedback system, which over a production run can greatly reduce the amount of giveaway of product to around 0.1% when filling to Average Weight Legislation. Allowing customers to ensure that they do not consistently over-fill products can lead to great savings in ‘product giveaway’ and provide a return on investment many times the value of the filling machine over it’s lifetime. Using a check-weigher to monitor the output highlights any inconsistencies as a result of varying powder densities being loaded into the filling machine. Using an integrated check-weigher we can also monitor under/overweight containers and allow these to be rejected if required. With technology and quality refined over decades of experience, All-Fill can provide solutions to the most challenging of applications. All-Fill offer solutions for the widest range of industries, from food and beverage to chemical, pharmaceutical and cosmetics. Tel: +44 (0)1767 691100 www.allfill.co.uk Info@allfill.co.uk of food. As the world experiences a sweeping transformation in food systems—powered by groundbreaking technologies, sustainability breakthroughs, and visionary ideas— Gulfood 2025 will be the epicentre of this revolution. This is where the next era of food begins, and you’re invited to be at the forefront of these seismic shifts. HortiContact 18 - 20 February Gorinchem, The Netherlands HortiContact is the place where the entire Dutch greenhouse horticulture sector comes together. At HortiContact, you’ll discover a wide range of products, services, and innovations that can help your business prepare for the future. As a visitor to HortiContact, you’ll connect with experts, suppliers, knowledge partners, and colleagues from the sector. It’s the perfect opportunity to gain valuable insights. At the same time, HortiContact offers exhibitors the chance to strengthen their brand, build new business connections, and enhance their market position. Packaging Innovations & Empack 12 - 13 February Birmingham, UK Packaging Innovations & Empack, along with Contract Pack & Fulfilment, is the UK’s premier annual event, driving business and fostering innovation across the entire packaging process. Attendees can explore a wide range of suppliers offering products and services, from design to advanced packaging, contract packing, e-commerce fulfilment, labelling, printing, and processing technology. These combined events offer a complete view of the packaging journey, guiding attendees from concept to production, and shaping the future of their brands. Gulfood 17 - 21 February Dubai, United Arab Emirates For over three decades, Gulfood has been the driving force at the heart of global food commerce—igniting innovation, sparking cross-cultural collaboration, and redefining the future 46 Food & Drink International www.fdiforum.net Events Food & Drink © stock.adobe.com/Clickmanis Food, Drink & Hospitality Week 2025 17 - 19 March London, UK Comprising five events - IFE, IFE Manufacturing, HRC, The Pub Show, and International Salon Culinaire - Food, Drink & Hospitality Week offers an unparalleled opportunity to network, discover innovation, and gain invaluable industry insights. New York Farm Show 20 - 22 February Syracuse, USA Since 1985, the New York Farm Show has been the Northeast’s top indoor farm event, attracting thousands of farmers and agricultural professionals. With over 400 exhibitors showcasing the latest farm equipment, agricultural technology, tractors, combines, and © stock.adobe.com/kastoAFFI-CON 22 - 25 February Dallas, USA Referred to as the premier frozen ingredients show, AFFI-CON is the ultimate event for sales in the frozen food industry, bringing together over 500 companies and more than 1,500 attendees in one location. This event facilitates B2B meetings to discuss current and future business opportunities. On average, attendees participate in 40+ private business meetings, setting the stage for a successful year. If you operate in the frozen food supply chain, attending AFFI-CON is essential for driving your sales forward! Food & Drink International 47 www.fdiforum.net © stock.adobe.com/Kadmy IntraLogisteX 25 - 26 March Birmingham, UK IntraLogisteX is the UK’s largest warehousing and intralogistics exhibition, bringing together professionals from across the supply chain and logistics sectors. The event showcases cutting-edge technologies, features insights from industry leaders, and hosts expert speakers who will explore the latest trends, innovative solutions, and best practices. crop protection products, it’s the ultimate destination for discovering cutting-edge innovations. Future Food-Tech 13 - 14 March San Francisco, USA As the need for healthy and climate-friendly food and ingredients grows, the role of innovation and collaboration is more important than ever. Future Food-Tech returns to the innovation hub of San Francisco on March 13-14, bringing leaders together from across the globe to navigate the R&D, strategy and partnerships necessary to ensure a healthy & sustainable future through food. Labelexpo Mexico 1 - 3 April Guadalajara, Mexico Discover a world where print meets the latest innovations transforming the future of the label and package printing industry. From label production to packaging advancements, get inspired to reimagine your possibilities. See the newest machinery and groundbreaking technologies. Learn about the latest industry topics and trends, meet with leading suppliers who are redefining the print landscape, and establish new business opportunities. FEATURES Software Spotlight Labelling, Coding & Marking Sieves & Separators Flavouring & Colouring Water Treatment Meat, Poultry & Seafood Import & Export EVENT PREVIEWS IFE Foodex Manufacturing Solutions Next month in March 2025 - Deadline 19th February INTERNATIONAL Visit us at www.fdiforum.net where you’ll find the latest news as it breaks – and why not subscribe to our newsletters so you can have the latest news emailed to your inbox, in between printed issues?Classified You can feature your company in our hugely popular Online Directory with a description, contact details and a hyperlink If you would like further information please contact Angela Cooper on +44 [0] 1472 310310 or email a.cooper@blmgroup.co.uk or visit www.fdiforum.net/directory From field to fork, Food & Drink International is the voice of the industry. 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