Laser Food, based in the citrus-producing region of Valencia, developed its patented technology in partnership with the University of Valencia; a technology which, according to International Business Development Manager Stephane Merit, “Has the potential to become a new standard in the labelling of fruit and vegetables.”
The technique allows for the permanent labelling of fresh produce in a safe manner. “It is about marking fruit without damaging it; the trick is to apply a very superficial mark, which is then made visible with contrast liquid,” explains Merit. “It is also safe against bacterial contamination, as it doesn’t go through the skin and has no impact on the shelf life.”Another advantage of laser labelling is that it is a cheap technology. Merit affirms that “The cost of marking 1,000 pieces of fruit is about 0.9 Euro. It is also eco-friendly, as we eliminate the need for paper, glue or the energy needed to produce these labels. It also allows for full traceability, opening new grounds for producers and retailers.”
Last, but not least, Merit stresses how the technology can lead to enhanced marketing. “It makes it possible to create different labels in a quick way and to have different logos and labels in the same production line.”
For its part, JBT Foodtech is a broad corporation and market leader in many of the industries it works in. According to Technical Manager Seamus Cullan, “The company sterilises more than 50% of the world’s shelf-stable foods, freezes over 50% of the world’s frozen foods and squeezes over 75% of the world’s citrus juices.”
The department that is going to collaborate with Laser Food is called Fresh Produce Technologies (FPT), “Which focuses on preservation products, waxes, fruit cleaners and decay management, with a strong technical service; we are also a one-stop shop for labelling solutions,” affirms Seamus.
The main reason for JBT’s decision to partner with Laser Food is that laser labelling is perceived as the next level in product identification. Seamus states that, “We see its huge potential and aim to be able to service and manufacture these machines in all the markets where we are present. We consider it a natural extension of what we do.”
Both companies believe that paper is bound to gradually disappear with the onset of laser labelling, as “It gives you more security and safety, with products identified up until they reach your table, and offers advantages in terms of costs, flexibility, creativity and eco-friendliness.” concludes Merit.
For more information:
Steven Maxwell
Fresh Position
Tel: +44 7796 948491
Email: steven@freshposition.com
Twitter: @FreshPosition
www.freshposition.com