For a sustainable energy turnaround in the food production sector

The exhibitors of Anuga FoodTec will present a wide selection of cross-industry solutions and services related to increased energy efficiency and saving resources. The seamless energy monitoring in compliance with DIN EN ISO 50001 requires intelligent and flexible systems to record the relevant energy performance indicators (EnPI). These EnPIs, such as the energy consumption per production unit, serve as the basis for measures to reduce energy consumption. A precise analysis of weak points directly on-site is indispensable here.

This is precisely where automation and digitalisation come into play - because efficiency and sustainability can be best achieved through automated processes, which are monitored digitally and in real-time so they can be adapted as required. The key lies in data transparency which enables the companies to break the energy consumption for rinsing, cleaning, washing or heating down into the individual processes. The shorter the reaction time of for instance a temperature sensor on the heat exchanger, the faster the heating valve can be controlled. This not only saves thermal energy, but also reduces the negative influence on the taste. On the other hand, with the help of exact flow measurement the required heat holding time can be observed exactly and a control concept implemented to increase the production capacity.

Modern sensors and data managers play a key role since they act as an interface to the process control level and support different fieldbuses. Artificial intelligence (AI) can be increasingly implemented by connecting machines and production systems in On-premises, Edge and Cloud environments. AI analyses measured values and enables the automated, energy-efficient control of production processes. The integration of AI requires innovative approaches in process measuring technology so that data can be used beyond a pure sensor function.

From temperature, to fill level, through to pressure and moisture: The development of sensor software concepts means that complex demands can be mastered today using multisensor technologies. These enable the simultaneous measurement of different physical and chemical variables in a sensor module. Flow meters that integrate both temperature and pressure sensors are an example of this. They enable the precise measurement of fluids, gases and steam in industrial circuits. These technologies support the goal of CO2 neutral food production.

Compressed air is a further determining factor for increased energy efficiency.

This requires on the one hand a precise design so that compressors - also thanks to the implementation of frequency convertors to control the speed - can work at the optimum operating point round the clock. In this way, the energy efficiency of whole production chains can be significantly improved - from ventilators, to pumps, through to conveyor belts. Converting the motors over to more efficient models can increase the overall efficiency too. For example asynchronous motors with an efficiency of IE4 and synchronous reluctance motors with an efficiency of IE5 are available. In turn, retrofits optimise the reliability and energy efficiency of already installed electric motors and converters without having to invest in new equipment. The exhibitors of Anuga FoodTec 2024 will also be presenting solutions in this area.

An efficient energy utilisation is a decisive factor in order to reduce CO2 emissions resulting from production processes. However, this alone will not lead to the achievement of the climate goals. In addition to process technologies on energy saving, the integration of renewable energy sources is a further focus. Solar thermal energy, heat pumps, biogas or biomass offer food producers attractive opportunities to actively co-shape the energy turnaround and at the same time guarantee the security of supply. Cogeneration systems and thermal storage technologies enhance this approach and enable a sustainable energy supply.

These topics will be addressed in the exhibition area "Environmental technology and energy", which is being integrated into Anuga FoodTec for the first time. Cogeneration units and combined heat and power (CHP) plants, which provide at the same time electricity and heat in the form of steam or hot water, offer further promising potential. Thermal storage technologies are comparably quickly implementable alternatives to fossil raw materials. They enable electricity to be sourced favourably-priced from the grid, stored and used on-demand during sunny and windy periods.

Anuga FoodTec 2024 will be the central platform for innovations in the food and beverage industry. Pioneering solutions in the form of automated processes, smart sensors, sensor software concepts, AI and further technologies will be presented for improving energy efficiency and sustainability. The trade exhibitors will offer extensive insights into best practices and demonstrate how an environmentally-friendly food production can be achieved. The focus lies on an holistic examination of the production processes to guarantee global security of supply and a sustainable change of the food system.

There are already very good indications that a high number of exhibitors will be represented in all segments at Anuga FoodTec. The event programme comprising of lectures and panel discussions is also taking on shape. One of the key questions of the event programme will be: How should food production be aligned across the supply chain to ensure a sustainable change in our food system and global security of supply in future?

Anuga FoodTec is unique with its cross-process and cross-industry approach. It covers all aspects of the production of food and beverages – from process technology, as well as filling and packaging technology, to food safety and packaging, through to digitalisation and intralogistics. Organised by Koelnmesse, Anuga FoodTec is being staged in Cologne from 19.-22.03.2024. The professional and industry sponsor is the DLG, the German Agricultural Society.