NORWAY – Elopak, a supplier of carton packaging and filling equipment is rolling out a new filling machine with exceptional hygiene levels that gives fresh products a shelf life of up to 60 days.

This machine is supported by a HEPA air management system, which is the result of extensive research and testing.

The next-generation filling machine is designed by Elopak and produced by the company’s long-term partner Shikoku.

The HEPA filter system, stainless steel components and dual-step heating and sealing processes ensure the highest levels of hygiene, helping to extend the shelf-life of fresh products.

The machine’s self-cleaning and sterilization features allow efficient switches between products, reducing food waste. The machine is versatile and fills gable top cartons from 250 ml up to 1.136 ml in Pure-Pak® carton formats.

In addition to improving hygiene standards, the machine has an upgraded safety design for operators.

Hands-free cleaning and magnetic doors further ensure the operator’s safety and reduce the margin for human error.

The machine is designed to fill cartons with fresh and extended-shelf-life dairy products, fresh and extended-shelf-life juices, water, and plant-based drinks. All products with or without particles.

Patrick Verhelst, Elopak’s Chief Marketing Officer said: “Our new filling machine is manufactured to meet the highest quality and hygiene standards. It sets a new standard for fresh products by extending the shelf life to 60 days.

“A longer shelf life means less food waste in addition to making it easier for the consumer to choose environmentally friendly containers for their fresh milk or juice products.”

Meanwhile, in June, the company revealed plans to build a new plant in the USA to better serve its customers in the Americas and accelerate growth in the region.

The new plant will allow Elopak to build on an already strong track record of organic and profitable growth driven by high customer demand in the region.

Elopak will invest around US$50 million (including lease liability) in the new plant over the period 2023 – 2024.

The investment will be financed by utilizing Elopak’s existing Revolving Credit Facility. The plant is expected to commence production in the fourth quarter of 2024 and will create more than 100 new jobs.

Lionel Ettedgui, EVP of North America said, “Over the last few years, Elopak has delivered very strong profitable growth in the Americas.

“The time has now come to increase capacity to further strengthen our organization and enable us to provide quality service to our customers in the Americas faster and more efficiently.”