In the competitive Australian food manufacturing landscape, efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness are paramount. A crucial element often overlooked is the reliable supply of industrial gases like nitrogen and oxygen. This blog explores the importance of using gas in food manufacturing and the significant advantages of on-site gas generation to help your businesses thrive.

The Importance of Gas in Food Manufacturing

Gases play a vital role in various food processing and packaging applications. Nitrogen and oxygen, in particular, are essential for maintaining product quality and extending shelf life. Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP), a widely used technique, relies heavily on these gases. For example, nitrogen is used to displace oxygen in packaging, preventing oxidation and spoilage in products like snacks, meats, and coffee. Oxygen, while often removed, is sometimes used in specific MAP applications to maintain the vibrant red colour of fresh meat. These gases contribute to preserving freshness, controlling microbial growth, and enhancing product presentation.

On-Site Gas Generation vs. Traditional Supply

For years, food manufacturers have relied on delivered gas cylinders or liquid nitrogen/oxygen. However, on-site gas generation offers a compelling alternative with numerous benefits:

• Cost Savings: On-site generation typically achieves a return on investment (ROI) within 1-3 years by eliminating recurring gas purchase costs, delivery fees, and rental charges.

• Convenience: No more worrying about gas deliveries or running out of supply during critical production periods. On-site generation provides a continuous and readily available gas source.

• Consistent Supply: Enjoy a stable gas supply at the required flow rate and pressure, ensuring consistent product quality and preventing production disruptions.

• Improved Control: On-site generation gives you greater control over gas purity and pressure, allowing you to fine-tune your processes for optimal results.

Nitrogen Gas Generators for Food Applications

Gas Generation Australia offers two primary types of nitrogen generators:

• Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA): PSA technology separates nitrogen from air using a molecular sieve. It's ideal for applications requiring high purity nitrogen (up to 99.999%), making it perfect for sensitive food products.

• Membrane Separation: Membrane technology uses a selective membrane to separate nitrogen from air. It's a cost-effective solution for applications with less stringent purity requirements.

Both technologies offer unique advantages. PSA provides ultra-high purity, while membrane separation is often more energy-efficient for specific flow rates. Our team can help you determine the best option based on your needs.

The NITROSWING® Foodpack: A Game Changer for MAP

For food manufacturers focused on Modified Atmosphere Packaging, the Novair NITROSWING® Foodpack is a specialised nitrogen generator designed to meet the industry’s stringent demands. Ideal for packaging fresh produce, meats, snack foods, baked goods, coffee, tea, and other sensitive ingredients, this system offers:

• Optimised for MAP: The Foodpack delivers the precise nitrogen purity, flow rate, and pressure stability crucial for maintaining product quality and extending shelf life.

• High Purity Nitrogen: Achieve up to 99.999% nitrogen purity, minimising the risk of spoilage and oxidation.

• Modular and Scalable: Easily adjust your nitrogen supply as your production needs change, avoiding costly system overhauls.

• Compact Footprint: Integrate the Foodpack seamlessly into your existing production line, even with limited space.

• Food-Grade Materials and Construction: Built with materials compliant with food industry standards, ensuring the nitrogen is safe for food packaging.

• Hygienic Design: Minimise the risk of bacterial growth and contamination with a design that prioritises cleanliness.

• Reliable and Consistent Performance: Enjoy a stable nitrogen supply, minimising downtime and ensuring smooth production.

• Cost-Effective: Reduce recurring gas purchase costs and gain greater control over your nitrogen supply.

• Easy to Operate and Maintain: Minimise the burden on your team with a user-friendly system.

See the full nitrogen range and packaged solutions here.

Oxygen Gas Generators for Food Applications

Oxygen plays a role in some food applications, such as specific MAP needs or oxygen-enriched processing. Gas Generation Australia offers oxygen generation technology tailored to these requirements. Our team can discuss your specific needs and recommend the appropriate solution.

Gas Generation Australia: Your Onsite Gas Generation Partner

Gas Generation Australia is your trusted partner for on-site gas generation solutions. We supply Novair gas generators, a brand internationally renowned for its technological expertise, innovation, and commitment to quality. We offer:

• Customised Solutions: We tailor systems to meet your specific requirements, ensuring seamless integration and optimal performance.

• Reliable Equipment: We provide high-quality, durable generators for long-term, reliable operation.

• Comprehensive Service: From installation and maintenance to ongoing support, we take a cradle-to-grave approach to ensure your system performs optimally.

• Cost-Effective Solutions: We help you maximise your ROI with solutions designed for efficiency and long-term cost savings.

FAQs

• How much does on-site gas generation cost? The cost varies depending on your needs, but ROI is typically achieved in 1-3 years.

• What maintenance is required? Modern systems require minimal maintenance, and we offer comprehensive service packages.

• Is on-site generation safe? Yes, our systems are designed with safety in mind and comply with all relevant standards. In fact, on-site systems supersede the manual handling risks associated with using gas cylinders.

In Summary

Investing in on-site gas generation is a strategic move for Australian food manufacturers looking to improve efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness. Gas Generation Australia, in partnership with Novair, provides the expertise and technology you need to take your operations to the next level.

Ready to optimise your food manufacturing process with on-site gas generation? Contact Gas Generation Australia today for a consultation. Let us help you find the perfect nitrogen or oxygen generation solution for your business.