FAQ:
Everything You Need to Know About Dairy Product Packaging
What dairy products can be packaged on Serac machines?
Serac machines can package a wide range of dairy products, whether liquid or viscous: fresh milk, UHT milk, flavored milk, drinkable yogurt, stirred yogurt, liquid cream, heavy cream, dairy desserts, and even plant-based products. The machine configuration is tailored to the product’s characteristics, including its viscosity, microbiological sensitivity, and the possible presence of chunks.
Why use weight-based dosing for packaging dairy products?
Weight-based dosing directly measures the weight of the product dispensed into each container. This technology ensures high precision, even when the product’s density or viscosity varies. It ensures that the quantity meets specifications, minimizes overfilling, and reduces waste.
What types of containers can be filled and sealed on a Serac line?
Depending on the selected configuration, a Serac line can handle various formats of bottles, vials, jars, trays, and more—made primarily of plastic or other materials compatible with the process. Several closure systems can also be integrated: screw caps, snap-on caps, lids, or custom solutions. Compatibility depends on the container’s geometry, its material, and the product’s storage requirements.
How do Serac systems minimize product loss and overfilling?
The precision of weight-based dosing allows for fine-tuning of the quantity dispensed into each container. Filling is controlled individually to reduce variations and avoid unnecessary overfilling. This control helps reduce raw material losses, improve production consistency, and optimize the cost per packaged unit.
How are dairy packaging machines cleaned and disinfected?
Serac equipment is designed according to principles that promote hygiene and ease of cleaning. Surfaces in contact with the product, the circuits, and the filling components can be cleaned and disinfected according to protocols tailored to the specific application. The design aims to minimize retention areas and facilitate access to components. Procedures are defined based on the product, the desired level of hygiene, and the constraints of the production site.
Can Serac machines be equipped with cleaning-in-place (CIP) systems?
Yes, Serac lines can be equipped with a cleaning-in-place system, also known as CIP (Cleaning in Place). This system allows for the cleaning of product-contact circuits without the need for systematic disassembly. The cycles can be automated and configured according to recipes, products, and the facility’s sanitary requirements. This solution helps ensure thorough cleaning, improve repeatability, and reduce downtime.
How do you choose between hygienic, ESL, or aseptic packaging for a dairy product?
The choice depends primarily on the desired shelf life, storage conditions, the product’s sensitivity, and the required level of decontamination. Hygienic packaging is suitable for certain refrigerated applications with a limited shelf life. An ESL solution aims to extend cold storage life through enhanced contamination control. Aseptic packaging is designed for applications requiring a longer shelf life. Serac works with the customer to determine the best solution after analyzing the product, packaging, and production objectives.
