Developments in robot applications for food manufacturing

Purpose – The purpose of this paper to provide an overview of the current state of play for robot applications in the food industry. Design/methodology/approach – This paper is based on experience and knowledge gained by working in the automation with specific contact with the food sector and automation suppliers who are working in that sector. Findings – The food sector has enormous potential for the application of robots and many of the technical challenges are solved. The major problems lie in the lack of the necessary engineers to both conceive and implement automated solutions. Originality/value – This paper provides an overview of the current situation including the benefits in favour of automation together an assessment of the challenges to be solved.