It’s not uncommon for compressed air to contact a product in the manufacturing process, which can present a problem in food manufacturing.
For this reason, oil free air for food manufacturing is essential. The air potentially contacting products we ingest needs to meet certain regulated standards. Compressed air is often used in the cooking and processing of foods, and in the packaging process. Below is a little more about the importance of oil free air in food manufacturing in both the cooking and processing, and packaging processes.
Key Takeaways
- Oil-free air is critical for food and beverage applications. Even trace amounts of oil can compromise product quality.
- Oil-free systems reduce maintenance and downtime, and prevent costly recalls.
- It’s important that manufacturers follow FDA and ISO8573-1 regulations in the cooking, processing, and packaging processes.
Cooking And Processing
Compressed air is often used to power pneumatic equipment, mix ingredients, and assist in the movement of raw materials during the processing stages. Using oil-free air at this stage is essential in preventing contamination. Oil-contaminated air can compromise the purity of food products. Even small traces can alter the taste, texture, and the safety of the food.
Cooking and processing with oil-free compressed air also preserves your product integrity. Oil-free air ensures that the flavor profiles and nutritional values of food products remain unaltered, maintaining consistency and quality.
Oil-free air is also essential in meeting regulatory standards. Food safety regulations from the FDA and ISO 8573-1 require control of contaminants including oil, in food-grade compressed air systems.
Packaging
The packaging process often involves the use of compressed air for sealing, filing and vacuum applications. The use of oil-free air in packaging helps to maintain the shelf life of your products. Oil-contaminated air can compromise the seal on packages, leading to increased waste. It also ensures sterile conditions, preventing microbial growth or contamination.
Oil-free air helps your food manufacturing process comply with food safety protocols. Many food manufacturers are required to use oil-free air compressors to comply with global food safety certifications, and ensure that packaging processes meet consumer expectations.
What To Look For In An Oil-Free Air Compressor
When you’re shopping for an oil-free air compressor in food and beverage, there are a few things you should remain on the lookout for:
- Certification and Compliance Standards: Ensure that the compressor you’re looking at meets ISO 8573-1 Class 0 standards for air purity and complies with any relevant food safety regulations.
- Durability and Reliability: Look for systems designed to withstand continuous operation in demanding environments without compromising performance.
- Energy Efficiency: Oil-free compressors come with energy-saving features that minimize operational costs.
- Low Maintenance: Look for an oil-free air compressor with minimal maintenance requirements to reduce downtime and associated cost.
- Advanced Filtration Systems: High-quality filtration is what protects the purity of the air and your product.
Find Your Oil-Free Air Compressor With Us
Compressor Services sells high-quality oil free air compressors perfect for the food manufacturing industry. We also provide world-class support services for air compressor owners in Illinois and Wisconsin. Contact us today to find the right compressor for your application.
