3 ways to achieve maximum productivity in gummy production (Part 2)

The latest innovations in seasoning technology mean that confectionery products can be sugar coated automatically, increasing production speeds, while also improving yield. Conventional sugar-coating techniques involve passing a moulded jelly through a steam bath and then running it through a curtain of sugar in a tumble drum.

A more recipe-driven approach, however, demonstrates that tacking agents, applied at a very specific rate via specialised coating equipment, allow the coating of a gummy without drenching it. A controlled delivery can then be used to bring the sugar or citric acid powder into a small tumble drum. The result is a shorter retention time with improved product quality. The process also gives manufacturers greater flexibility in flavour application, since dry ingredients, or even flavoured tacking agents, can be added at a specific rate to cater to different consumer preferences.

3. Packaging made easy

Selecting effective bagging technology that maximises packaging speed and product throughput can go a long way in meeting rising demand for gummy candy. Vertical form fill and seal (VFFS) equipment, for example, enables rapid and easy bagging of a wide variety of confectionery types, including gummies. Next-generation solutions can even package products at speeds of over 250 bags per minute, provided that all elements of the packaging line can achieve similar output levels. These systems also reduce waste through the incorporation of stripper tube closures, which ensure high seal integrity. This is especially crucial for sugar-coated gummies, whereby the sugar can often hamper seal quality.

The latest VFFS equipment also supports manufacturers in meeting ever-evolving consumer needs. For example, smaller, convenient bags are gaining popularity as people around the world live healthier, but increasingly busy lifestyles. Traditionally, producers require varying equipment and components that must be changed between each production run to offer different bag sizes. Next-generation VFFS technology, however, has been designed with flexibility in mind. No mechanical adjustments are needed when changing product or film, and digital data settings have been incorporated into the systems for rapid product or pack changes. Additionally, these systems offer a wide range of bag-size options.

Source: Foodprocessing