The landscape of food processing is constantly evolving, with Convenience Food Systems at the forefront of innovation. GEA Food Processing stands as a leader in this domain, offering a comprehensive portfolio of solutions ranging from individual machines to fully automated lines. These technologies are meticulously designed for a diverse range of applications within convenience food systems, including defrosting, cutting, grinding, mixing, forming, marinating, coating, cooking, steaming, in-line smoking, and frying. GEA’s expertise extends across various product types, catering to the processing needs of poultry, meat, seafood, as well as the burgeoning vegetarian and vegan sectors, showcasing their adaptability within modern convenience food systems. Notably, GEA has been a proactive partner in the alternative protein industry for over two decades, assisting traditional meat processors in transitioning to alternative protein production and collaborating with startups to pioneer new frontiers in food technology.
Over the past sixty years, Bakel has been a hub of remarkable innovation for GEA, resulting in numerous market-leading technologies that have shaped convenience food systems. A prime example is the CookStar, introduced in 1992. This patented double spiral, two-zone oven revolutionized cooking techniques in convenience food production. Its innovative double-spiral design significantly enhanced yield and efficiency, setting a new benchmark for cooking technology within convenience food systems. Remarkably, many of the original CookStar ovens from the first generation are still operational today, a testament to their enduring quality and impact on convenience food systems. Building on this success, GEA launched the CookStar TurboCook in 2003, adding a third cooking zone and expanding its capabilities to include roasting, browning, and, from 2019, in-line smoking, further solidifying its position in advanced convenience food systems.
Another landmark innovation in convenience food systems is the CrumbMaster coating machine, launched in 1998. This technology transformed crumb coating processes across the food industry. The CrumbMaster quickly became recognized for its ability to handle a wide variety of crumb mixtures, from standard breadcrumbs to specialized j-crumbs, delighting food manufacturers with its versatility and efficiency in convenience food systems. For a quarter of a century, the CrumbMaster has been the global industry standard for coating technology. In its latest generation, the CrumbMaster continues to evolve, offering even greater efficiency, improved hygiene, and enhanced sustainability, directly contributing to reduced energy costs and minimized food waste within convenience food systems.
Marcel Janssen, Senior Director Product Owners at GEA Food Solutions, emphasizes GEA’s commitment to advancing convenience food systems: “Our legacy is built on introducing iconic products to the market, driving technological advancements, boosting productivity, and refining processes to minimize waste, time, and resource consumption. This success is deeply rooted in our collaborative relationships with customers, industry partners, and dedicated colleagues worldwide.” GEA’s ongoing innovations continue to define the future of convenience food systems, focusing on efficiency, sustainability, and meeting the evolving demands of the food industry.
