Industrial Vacuum Packaging Solutions for Food & Beverage

When bottling beverages, cosmetic or pharmaceutical products, the bottle is at first evacuated before being filled to make sure the product reaches the customer in good quality. Machines used for applications in the food industry are, in most cases, made from stainless steel. Stainless steel is used due to its corrosion resistance, hygienic properties, and compliance with food safety standards, making it ideal for environments requiring frequent cleaning and sterilization. This evacuation process also prevents oxidation, which is critical for preserving the flavor and shelf life of beverages, as well as maintaining the chemical stability of pharmaceutical products.

The surrounding pressure exerts a mechanical influence on the product that can greatly alter the external shape.

For this reason, the MAP process has been the method of choice in many application areas. In this process, products are packaged in modified atmosphere and the oxygen removed. The product is enclosed in a blister package, placed in the vacuum chamber and evacuated. The modified atmosphere is then injected and the blister package and food are sealed with a protective film.

Using this method the food retains its original shape and meats present a suitably red appearance to customers, even after extended storage.

Tray sealing is a widely used method for packaging fresh foods such as meats, poultry, seafood, fruits, vegetables, and pre-portioned meals. This process involves either generating a vacuum and sealing the bag or feeding inert gas, such as nitrogen, into the packaging before sealing. By introducing inert gas, the freshness of the food is preserved, spoilage is prevented, and the appearance of the product is maintained, even during extended storage periods. This technique is especially valuable for ensuring that packaged foods retain their quality and visual appeal for consumers.

For vacuum forming, an additional pump is needed at that part of the machine. Vacuum forming is commonly used for creating rigid packaging solutions like trays, lids, and containers for food and beverages. The additional pump ensures precise shaping and reduces defects during the forming process. This method is also used for creating protective packaging for delicate items, such as eggs or single-serve products, ensuring consistent quality across large-scale production.

Vacuum packaging removes air from food containers to preserve freshness, extend shelf life, and prevent contamination.

Oil-free pumps are ideal for hygienic applications, while lubricated pumps provide higher performance for demanding processes.

Oil-free systems like dry-running vacuum pumps are recommended for Modified Atmosphere Packaging due to their clean operation and reliability.

Industrial food vacuum sealers are complete machines for packaging, while vacuum pumps are core components that power the sealing process.

Regular maintenance includes checking seals, cleaning filters, and monitoring vacuum pump performance to ensure reliability and compliance.