Constructed for the Aurora Milk brand, the new system consists of a Tetra PlantMaster automation system for the processing equipment, and the entire plant, in combination with the PLMS Centre for the filling machines. Neither technology is new but Tetra Pak said it was the first time they have been used together to create a complete traceability system.
Explaining what it does, a spokesperson for Tetra Pak said: “The traceability solution is a data collection, integration and control system of food production in all its phases including raw material reception, processing, filling, quality control and distribution. The information is accessed on line for the use of the industry or even by consumers, through a website, for instance.”
Tetra Pak claims the system offers significant benefits for both Aurora and its customers.
Automation control
For the food processor, it allows real time monitoring and complete automation control so that problems on the production line can be quickly identified and resolved. Tetra Pak claims that the technologies also make it easier to comply with regulations and product certification requirements.
And for consumers, the system permits each carton to be stamped with an individual code that gives web-based information on the origin, processing and packaging of a product.
This means that consumers have access to information about each individual milk product and not just a production lot.
Traceability trend
Mario Lanznaster, president of Aurora Coopercentral, said: “Traceability is an essential tool to demonstrate credibility and engender confidence with producers, customers, suppliers and consumers.
“It has now become a critical food safety indicator. Working with Tetra Pak, Aurora and its customers can track foods from raw materials through to the final manufactured product. We can now monitor the production process and control quality parameters in real time.”
Sam Strömersten, president of Tetra Pak Processing added: “Traceability is becoming increasingly important to securing food safety - meeting consumer demand for more informative labelling and complying with stringent regulations governing food production.”
Aurora is one of the largest food companies in Brazil and is organised as a cooperative with more than 70 000 families providing and preparing raw materials for its products.