Key Technology

Automated systems manufacturer Key Technology has launched a redesigned Auto Dryer to remove moisture from fresh-cut produce and thereby enhance shelf-life, according to a company press release.

Available in one-, two-, and four-drum configurations, the new Auto Dryer features a larger 980-mm (38.6-inch) diameter drum that increases production throughput and new electronics which are said to improve reliability and simplify operation.

Compared to batch drying, the Auto Dryer doubles throughput in half the floor space while reducing labour, improving worker safety, and enhancing product quality, according to the manufacturer.

“At Key, the fresh-cut produce industry is a very important strategic market,” explained Teri Johnson, Fresh-Cut Industry Manager at Key Technology.

“We are reengineering existing products in our fresh-cut line to be sure they deliver the greatest value to our customers. The redesigned Auto Dryer is one in a series of developments designed to maximize the quality and safety of fresh-cut products and increase automation for fresh-cut processors worldwide.”

The Auto Dryer handles a wide variety of fresh-cut produce such as baby leaf and cut leaf lettuce, cabbage, spinach, and cut vegetables such as broccoli, celery, onions, and carrots.