While operators have a wide range of technology options for detecting foreign objects and guarding against potential pathogens during processing and packaging, implementing and maintaining the optimal equipment can be challenging.

The aseptic packaging market is picking up steam. Sector sales for the dairy industry will reach $24.6 billion globally by 2024, up from $14 billion in 2017, projects Transparency Market Research, an Albany, N.Y.-based market intelligence firm.

It is a transformative time for heat exchangers. The core dairy processing technology, which plays a key role in pasteurization and the production of such products as milk, cream, ice cream, yogurt and cheese, is undergoing refinements as more plant operators seek designs that enhance product quality while streamlining operating expenses.

Conveyors and palletizers in dairy processing facilities are literally on the move. With the technologies playing a key role in plant efficiency and product quality, equipment manufacturers are focusing on developing faster and more durable and reliable systems.

The dairy packaging sector is breaking out of its doldrums. While packaging has been historically slow to evolve, greater shopper interest in convenience and sustainability, and a sharper focus by brands on product appearance and freshness, are changing the landscape.

Leveraging a virtual waterfall of liquids is essential if operators are to keep processes running smoothly while ensuring facilities remain clean and safe. Yet the effective use of water still requires restraint.

The launch of cutting-edge software is adding sophistication and simplicity to the monitoring of dairy processing operations. Companies that invest in the evolving technologies will be in a strong position to accurately analyze plant performance while receiving real-time data for astute decision-making.

Flexible packaging is living up to its name. As convenience and sustainability become increasingly important to consumers, packaging suppliers are responding with more malleable designs.

Detecting foreign objects and other contaminants in dairy products is perhaps the most crucial part of the production process. Without the ability to effectively scan for adulterants, processors can compromise food safety and risk costly recalls, product waste and damage to their reputations.

Rigid packaging is undergoing a makeover. With consumers and product manufacturers putting pressure on packaging suppliers to develop designs that are eco-friendly, alternatives with biodegradable elements and less bulk are becoming more prevalent and helping to fuel greater sector activity.