The dairy packaging sector is becoming an increasingly active center of innovation. Growing shopper interest in sustainability, along with changing eating habits, is resulting in the steady development of more eco-friendly designs and packaging in a wider array of shapes and sizes.

Taking steps to manage sustainability along the supply chain makes good business sense for dairy processors. Indeed, 2018 research by The Nielsen Co. LLC, New York, reveals that 81% of global consumers and 69% of those in the United States say that it’s very important or extremely important that companies implement programs to help the environment.

Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important subject for dairy processors. With more operators seeking to “go green” to meet the growing eco-focus by consumers, retailers, and business partners, the ability to reduce wastewater and energy during production can cut costs while enhancing a company’s “eco halo.”

When it comes to the efficient transportation of milk and other dairy products, time is tight. Dairy processors must move selections in the most effective manner if they are to minimize operational expenses while maintaining food integrity and safety.

Automation is increasingly becoming the answer for greater efficiencies and efficacy in dairy warehouse operations. Processors are enhancing supply chain and logistics functions and other warehousing responsibilities with technologies intended to streamline worker expenses while enhancing productivity.

Pumps and valves can be a dairy processor's secret weapon for maximizing plant efficiencies and producing superior products. Being able to move liquids swiftly and safely through piping can reduce operating expenses while enhancing food quality.

Selecting the optimal packaging for their specific products and operating infrastructures can be an onerous endeavor for dairy processors. Companies seeking to maximize product quality, operating efficiencies and revenues must sort through a growing plethora of rigid and flexible options that consist of varying materials and elements.

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.