< PreviousLABELLING, CODING AND TRACEABILITY 40 Food & Drink International www.fdiforum.net There is little that is more legally binding in the food and drink industry than the labelling and coding on a product’s packaging. In an increasingly litigious industry that is influenced not only by consumers and businesses, but also by Government and lobby groups, the ability to quickly adapt to any changes is key. Depending on the specific industry a company operates in, there can be different regulations governing what, and how much, one needs to include on their labels. These can range from the ubiquitous weight, calorie and sell-by- date requirements, through to RDA percentage requirements on certain food and drink products servicing the health-food sector. Considering the large quantities of finished products that go through a manufacturing facility in any given day, there is also a necessity for a flawless and efficiency system that can work with batches of well over 10,000 individual products. All of this must be done with minimal downtime, efficient energy usage and unparalleled accuracy. The task only becomes more complex as the amount of details required on labels increases, and with the new Food Labelling Regulations that came into force last December, many companies found themselves struggling with increasing burdens. Ideally the goal for label application should always be automation, but that is not always the ideal solution. Automating the process is preferred wherever possible however, even when dealing with relatively low levels of throughput in a factory. Automation not only increases speed in terms of units processed, but also offers reliability in terms of where and how the label is applied, how correct the information is, and how quickly a labelling system can be changes to account for a different product line. But as said, that might not be an option for some companies – especially those who have just experienced an increase in demand but might not have the capital to throw at a fully automated production line. This is a problem faced by many, particularly in the artisan sector if they suddenly gain a contract from a major distributor and see their demand increased tenfold in just a few months. For companies like this, an offline system might be more applicable, in which products are taken Keeping track Labelling is not just about adhering to law or regulation, sometimes it is about protecting a brand or keeping track of what is sold where. 42 Á 40-43.qxp_Layout 1 24/09/2021 08:11 Page 1Food & Drink International 41 www.fdiforum.net © Shutterstock /Billion Photos 40-43.qxp_Layout 1 24/09/2021 08:11 Page 242 Food & Drink International www.fdiforum.net LABELLING, CODING AND TRACEABILITY to a labelling machine that is not part of an automated system. These can still label products at rates comparable to larger machines, and much faster than anyone could by hand, but are also a good middle ground between the cost and efficiency of a larger production line. Much of this will need to have software incorporated into it, particularly where multiple products can be found on a single line. The advice from those in the industry is not to skimp on this aspect, as although it might be tempting to invest more in the machinery, the software necessary to not only run it but ensure that employees can monitor it is just as important. This can be as simple as a coding system where relevant information, such as date coding rules, packaging artwork, barcodes and coding profiles are entered into a secure database. This allows validation prior to use. This goes on to remove the need for operators on a packaging line, cutting down on another risk of human error. Human error remains the number one cause for concern in labelling, not only in terms of a person stamping or applying a label to a product, but also monitoring the information that goes on the labels in the first place. Software systems often come as part and parcel of the system, and while these can often accurately measure, weigh and determine correct information on labels, it is still important that these be checked and monitored by operators on a day-by-day basis. It is often best to look for a software system that can © Shutterstock /Anatoly V artanov High-quality bag sealing machines from RM Sealers RM Sealers remain a leading British manufacturer and supplier of high-quality bag sealing Machines. These are proven bag closing machines, suitable for a wide range of industrial applications and may be bespoked to fulfil customer requirements. RM Sealers began its business life in 1969 under the name of RM Tool Company. Having built a formidable reputation as high quality mechanical and design engineers, the company was by Doboy in the early eighties to exclusively design and manufacture their BD range of Rotary Band Sealers for them. The Doboy bag sealing machines were subsequently rebranded under SIG and Bosch, and now are exclusively supplied through RM Sealers. The company offers a spare parts and maintenance service for all the machines which are still in use today under and branded under either the Doboy, SIG, Bosch, OK International or RM Sealers name, a testament to the longevity of its bag sealing machines. RM Sealers has more recently increased its market share by venturing into international and European countries such as Ireland, Iceland, Holland, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, America and South Africa. As well as offering off the shelf bag sealing machines, the company can add bespoke options to suit any given client’s needs. These include: * Extra Height Clearance Kit. Bags requiring a seal between 50 and 100mm from the top edge. * Driven Infeed. Mainly used in conjunction with our vertical machines. Assists the operator to accurately and speedily feed bags through the machine * Emboss Coder. Fitted at the outfeed end of the machine where text and/or numbers are continuously embossed into the seal. * Bag Top Trimmer. If good presentation is important this will trim any excess from the top of the bag, parallel to the seal. * Digital speed option available To find out more, visit www.rmsealers.co.uk. 40-43.qxp_Layout 1 24/09/2021 11:49 Page 3Food & Drink International 43 www.fdiforum.net LABELLING, CODING AND TRACEABILITY be integrated with other checking system at the same time as the labelling one, allowing it to label the product accurately based on the results it receives from weighing machines or vision detection systems. In that regard talking to professional systems specialists is always preferred as they might be able to save a company investment by pointing out how they can combine and adapt packages to cover different aspects at the same time. Labelling is often tied in with traceability, something that has become all but essential of late and seems to be generating even more focus due to media attention on food contamination and scandals. In many cases companies have taken an almost laissez-faire approach to traceability, trusting in their labels to highlight where a product came from so that they can track any issues. This approach may suit for internal needs in the company but is almost certain to fall short of what customers demand should a product recall occur on their shelves. In many cases the largest and most powerful supermarkets will demand answers within twenty-four hours, perhaps even less – which is going to necessitate a much more robust system. While it’s true that labelling and traceability will always go hand in hand, it is therefore important to remember that neither is a solution unto another and that investment may be necessary into additional safeguards. The issue of traceability should be considered as its own matter, often tied into additional systems such as vision, inspection and quality assurance. A centralised (or at least remotely operable) software system will likely also need to be in place, particularly to isolate and identify where a fault occurred and what products were delivered to where. This can help prevent costly recalls that might cover multiple customers, useful when it might only be one or two who run the risk of contaminated food products. Traceability systems can be a daunting prospect for many, often treated like insurance or breakdown cover in our normal lives in that the benefit is not seen until something goes wrong. The world has become increasingly litigious of late, however, and the media has been quick to pounce on negative stories and food scares, so a fats response from an efficient system can help to minimise brand damage. Sometimes this can be through quick identification and recall, others by finding out that the issue took place in another facility and might not have been the fault of the manufacturer at all. Consumer attention can be short, however, so failing to provide a satisfactory answer quickly can mean people only remember the initial storm of negative publicity. The labelling industry is ever- evolving, reflecting the needs and expectations of the food and drink sector at large. This is why shows and events continue to boast large attendance and interest. These are often good places to find out more about what challenges and opportunities are available, as many companies reveal their latest machinery at such events. © Shutterstock /LADO • Plain / Printed Labels • Thermal Transfer Ribbons • Lasersheets • Fanfolded Labels • Barcode Labels Self adhesive labels and labelling Tel: 01482 506560 • Email: sales@datamarkuk.com • Website: www.datamarkuk.com 40-43.qxp_Layout 1 24/09/2021 11:49 Page 444 Food & Drink International www.fdiforum.net LAB INNOVATIONS The two-day Lab Innovations event will bring professionals back together after eighteen months to showcase innovations from sectors including life sciences, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, food and drink, cleanrooms and more. From new products to new ideas, the exhibit will offer visitors an opportunity to discover the latest innovations in lab technology. Professionals, suppliers and manufacturers will be able to take advantage of networking opportunities to not only showcase their work but build relationships with others as well. Visitors will also receive a smart badge that they can simply tap on exhibitors’ readers to get their details, without exchanging business cards. These precautions mean that visitors will safely be able to meet suppliers, browse through exciting new products and innovations, and do business effectively. “In challenging times, we must have the courage to innovate,” said Aleiya Lonsdale, Marketing Manager at Easyfairs, the event’s organiser. “Lab Innovations offers the unique opportunity for lab professionals from all sectors to gather under one roof, allowing visitors to discover the latest innovations from familiar as well as new disciplines.” Visitors will also be able to gain CPD points from over forty hours of exciting, free-to-attend conferences distributed across four theatre programmes. Speakers will address issues including future-proofing labs with digital technology, improving sustainability through waste reduction in the Sustainable Laboratory and implementing a circular economy model across the laboratory industry. Keynote speakers include Timandra Harkness, science writer, broadcaster and comedian. Other confirmed speakers include Andy Evans, director of lab sustainability consultancy Green Light Laboratories, and Martin Farley, sustainable labs advisor at University College London and health schools sustainability manager at Kings College London. The show is co-located with Advanced Engineering, the UK’s largest annual engineering show, giving Get expert advice on sterilisation systems at Lab Innovations 2021 Astell Scientific explain how its customised autoclaves are more cost-effective for your quality control department at Lab Innovations. The steam sterilisation experts have been producing autoclaves since 1884, in which time they have introduced a wide array of technologies and learned about the varying needs of laboratories in the food and drink sector. To provide cost-effective autoclaves, Astell build its units to order with exactly the right hardware configuration for the end user – no more or less. This means rarely are two autoclaves the same. However, one element remains consistent throughout: the Astell touch-screen control computer system. With a base model capable of storing fifty cycle programs, archiving data from five-thousand past cycles, and transferring data via USB, the simple-to-use system provides an equal array of advanced features to all Astell autoclaves. The Astell team will be at the Lab Innovations 2021 exhibition as part of the Scientific Laboratory Supplies (SLS) stand (E40). Lab Innovations Taking place on the 3 and 4 November at Birmingham’s NEC, Lab Innovations is the UK’s only trade exhibition for the entire laboratory industry. 44-45.qxp_Layout 1 24/09/2021 08:13 Page 1Food & Drink International 45 www.fdiforum.net LAB INNOVATIONS attendees the chance to visit two shows with one badge, reinforcing cross-sector collaboration. The co-location of the two shows means that for two days, the best and brightest talent across science and engineering will meet and discuss the next big ideas that will reignite business in both industries. Lab Innovations will also bring the “Bringing together so much talent inevitably creates the conditions for the next big ideas in the business to take form and grow, and who would miss an opportunity like that? Lab Innovations is certainly an unmissable event.” To find out more, visit www.lab-innovations.com, email nicole.hawkins@easyfairs.com, or call +44 (0)20 3196 4379. Lab Awards, in partnership with Lab News, on the evening of Wednesday 3 November. The event will highlight and celebrate the key achievements of the lab industry, recognising individuals, suppliers and projects. “The scientific community can’t wait to meet and engage in person once again,” added Alison Willis, Divisional Director of Easyfairs. To register, visit 44-45.qxp_Layout 1 24/09/2021 08:13 Page 2hosted a G8 Summit. Insights will be shared by leading international and regional businesses on the latest market and strategic developments, as well as by innovators and entrepreneurs bringing new ideas and taking up new challenges. To find out more, visit www.zenithglobal.com/events/gwdc2021. Agrofood Nigeria 2021 16 – 28 October Landmark Centre Lagos Due to upbeat market development and an ever-increasing interest in the Nigerian market, the 6th edition of agrofood Nigeria & plastprintpack Nigeria in 2021 is all set to become a major milestone event for the Nigerian agrofood & plastprintpack industry. Global technology leaders will showcase adapted technologies and solutions for the Nigerian and West African market towards more than two thousand specialised trade visitors in the fields of agriculture, food processing, ingredients, plastics, printing and packaging. The exhibition Anuga 9 – 13 October Koelnmesse, Cologne, Germany The world’s largest trade fair is the most important industry meeting point with over 7,500 exhibitors and more than 170,000 visitors and as such, the No.1 food and beverage business event. Anuga will once again feature the world’s most relevant innovations and topics for the international trade audience. With 10 trade shows under one roof, an exciting congress and event programme and over 280000 square meters of business opportunities, the Anuga Food & Beverage fair is a must. To find out more, visit www.anuga.com. 18th Global Water Drinks Congress 19 - 21 October Gleneagles, Scotland Tour Highland Spring’s bottling operations, followed by two days of conference sessions, networking opportunities and a gala industry awards dinner in a spectacular setting that 46 Food & Drink International www.fdiforum.net Events Food & Drink © Shutterstock /Y ARUNIV Studio © Shutterstock / marilyn barbone SupplySide West 2021 & Food Ingredients North America 25 – 28 October Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas SupplySide West & Food Ingredients North America is the premier gathering of health and nutrition professionals bringing together buyers and suppliers from throughout the industry. It is all about science and strategy around the development of finished products that drive the global business economy. To find out more, visit www.west.supplysideshow.com. Due to the coronavirus outbreak, readers should be aware that events may have been cancelled or postponed. All dates correct as of publishing, but please check beforehand. is complemented by a top level 3-day conference featuring more than 40 Nigerian and European experts. Organised by the German trade show specialists fairtrade the event is scheduled for 26 to 28 October 2021 at the Landmark Centre in Lagos - Victoria Island Annex. To find out more, visit www.agrofood-nigeria.com. 46-47.qxp_Layout 1 24/09/2021 08:15 Page 1Lab Innovations 1 – 4 November NEC Birmingham At Lab Innovations, the industry will meet to launch its products and innovations to the UK’s leading gathering of lab professionals, suppliers and manufacturers. Lab professionals across all sectors will be able to discover sustainable lab initiatives, secure the latest tech, join exciting free conferences to earn CPD points and explore new ways of future-proofing labs. To find out more, visit https://bit.ly/2SFFzxj Process Expo 2021 2 – 5 November Chicago, USA Process Expo showcases all aspects of the food and beverage processing and packaging industry, uniting all industry sectors. The show floor features 400+ exhibiting companies from around the world, making Process Expo THE meeting place for processing and packaging professionals seeking the latest technology, advancements and equipment. The event represents the pinnacle of food technology bringing together the world’s most successful food and beverage processors, packaging professionals, equipment manufacturers, and leaders in the field of academia. To find out more, visit www.myprocessexpo.com. Food and Beverage 2021 Global Symposium 5 October Online Aptean’s Food and Beverage 2021 Global Symposium will get you up to speed and ready for what’s next in this dynamic, highly competitive and challenging marketplace. During our virtual event, you’ll take a deep dive into Aptean’s ‘2021 Global Trends Report’ to learn all about recent developments, participate in engaging breakout sessions, hear from your peers about the benefits of purpose-built solutions and hear industry leaders discuss today’s most relevant issues with our keynote presentation and panel discussion. To find out more, visit https://bit.ly/3k9QLO2 Food & Drink International 47 www.fdiforum.net © Shutterstock / Zheltyshev IBIEducate 2021 26 - 28 October Kansas City The COVID-19 pandemic and shifting consumer preferences are accelerating change across the grain-based foods industry— and it’s never been more important to evolve your processes, techniques, and expand your knowledge. To meet that immediate need, IBIE is launching IBIEducate 2021, a new event that delivers the top-quality insights and tools you’d expect to gain from the world-class education program at the International Baking Industry Exposition (IBIE), the triennial Baking Expo. To find out more, visit https://bit.ly/3llnTld 46-47.qxp_Layout 1 24/09/2021 08:15 Page 2FEATURES Packaging Spotlight Depositors & Filling Facilities Management Cold Storage Foodservice Soups & Sauces Import & Export Next month in November 2021 - Deadline 13th October INTERNATIONAL Food&Drink Food &Drink 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? 48.qxp_Layout 1 24/09/2021 08:20 Page 1Classified Often imitated… …never equalled 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 Vicky Hunt on +44 [0] 1472 310310 or email v.hunt@blmgroup.co.uk or visit www.fdiforum.net/directory From field to fork, Food & Drink International is the voice of the industry. Food & Drink International 49 www.fdiforum.net Depositors Tel: 01282 440040 enquiries@riggsautopack.co.uk www.riggsautopack.co.uk Manufacturers of depositors & filling machines for the food production industry Labels Tel: 01482 506560 sales@datamarkuk.com www.datamarkuk.com • Self adhesive Labels • Lasersheets • Fanfolded Labels • Thermal Transfer Ribbons • Barcode Labels INDEX Online Directory Depositors Labels To Let w w w . fd if o ru m .n et • Superb Location - Close to the ports of Grimsby & Immingham - Great motorway links - Close to the town centre • Secure off street parking • High speed internet availability • Easy in/out terms • A range of affordable office sizes Armstrong House, Armstrong Street, Grimsby DN31 2QE Tel: (01472) 310301 Email: s.fisher@blmgroup.co.uk Ground floor offices to let - prime location in Grimsby To Let Online Directory To advertise your services on the Classified pages contact us on 01472 310302 49.qxp_Layout 1 24/09/2021 08:21 Page 1Next >