Rockwell Automation has partnered with Middleby Food Processing to introduce what is being hailed as the food industry’s first fully automated bacon production line. This significant innovation was showcased at the recent IFFA trade show held in Frankfurt, Germany. As the demand for more efficient, flexible, and sustainable food production solutions increases, Middleby sought Rockwell’s expertise to create a unified automation platform that can transform their production capabilities.
Based in Elgin, Illinois, Middleby Food Processing is recognized as a global leader in foodservice innovation. The company required a scalable solution to tackle challenges such as rising labor costs, limited operational space, and stringent sustainability goals. Rockwell Automation was selected for its extensive engineering expertise and its ability to seamlessly integrate various systems while ensuring future-proof manufacturing processes.
Mark Salman, President of Middleby Food Processing, emphasized the importance of integration in their decision-making. He stated, “Premier integration of Rockwell Automation equipment across the Middleby Food Processing brands was key to our decision. We needed long-term flexibility and interoperability across machines. Rockwell delivered that, along with robust engineering support and best-in-class programming practices.”
The solution provided by Rockwell includes FactoryTalk Optix, a system that standardizes operator interfaces and application code libraries. This includes the Machine Builder Library and Device Objects, which create a consistent programming structure across different equipment brands. Such an architecture allows service technicians to troubleshoot and support systems remotely, enhancing real-time data strategies and production agility.
Steve Pulsifer, Senior Manager of Partner Marketing at Rockwell Automation, expressed pride in supporting Middleby Food Processing’s vision. “This collaboration shows what’s possible when innovation and automation come together. This fully automated bacon line improves throughput, reduces labor and wastewater usage, and raises the bar for food manufacturing,” he noted.
While the bacon production line represents a breakthrough, Middleby Food Processing’s automation initiatives extend beyond this segment, encompassing various food categories, including bakery and protein processing. The solutions powered by Rockwell are designed for adaptability, enabling customers to tailor systems to meet their unique operational needs and maintain a competitive edge in the market.
Overall, this partnership marks a significant step forward in the evolution of food processing technology, positioning both Rockwell Automation and Middleby Food Processing at the forefront of industry innovation.
