Beyond Aesthetics: The Crucial Role of Hygienic Bench Scale Design in the Food Industry

In the dynamic landscape of the food industry, maintaining the highest standards of hygiene is paramount. One often overlooked yet critical aspect is the design of weighing equipment, particularly bench scales. As a cornerstone in food processing, these scales play a pivotal role in ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and most importantly, the safety of the end product. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the importance of hygienic design for bench scales within the food industry, shedding light on the key considerations and benefits that come with prioritising cleanliness and sanitation.

Preventing Contamination

Hygienic design in bench scales is not just about aesthetics; it’s about preventing contamination at every stage of the weighing process. In the food industry, where even the slightest compromise in cleanliness can lead to severe consequences, having scales with smooth surfaces, minimal joints, and easy-to-clean features is essential.

MWS recommends looking for fully welded and capped box section materials, which eliminates hidden crevices that can harbour bacteria. This design minimises the risk of bacterial growth and ensures that the scales can be thoroughly sanitised, meeting the stringent hygiene standards set by regulatory bodies.

Compliance with Industry Regulations

The food industry operates under rigorous regulations to safeguard public health. Bench scales used in food processing must comply with these standards to guarantee the safety of the products reaching consumers. Hygienic design not only aligns with these regulations but also demonstrates a commitment to quality and safety. This not only safeguards the reputation of the manufacturer but also instils confidence in businesses across the food supply chain.

Enhancing Operational Efficiency

Bench scales designed with hygiene in mind go beyond merely meeting regulatory requirements; they contribute to the overall efficiency of food processing operations. Smooth surfaces and easily cleanable components mean reduced downtime for cleaning procedures. This, in turn, translates to increased productivity and a smoother workflow, allowing businesses to meet demanding production schedules without compromising on hygiene.

It’s also important to look at the components of the scale such as the fasteners. If stainless steel fasteners have been used, they can end up rusting over time which makes it very difficult and time consulting to remove when it comes to scale maintenance and repair.

Longevity and Cost Savings

Investing in hygienically designed bench scales is an investment in the longevity of the equipment. By minimising the risk of corrosion, wear, and tear due to harsh cleaning procedures, these scales prove to be more durable over time. This not only reduces the frequency of replacements but also translates to significant cost savings for businesses in the long run.

For example, many imported scales use cheap stainless steel which tends to discolour overtime, especially after repeated washdowns. Instead, look for scales that are made from 304 or 316L grade European stainless steel with a glass bead blast finish, which is a hygienic design meant to withstand harsh washdowns.

Where to Buy Hygienic Bench Scales

Hygienic design in bench scales is not just a feature; it’s a necessity for businesses operating in the food industry. From preventing contamination to ensuring regulatory compliance and enhancing overall operational efficiency, the importance of this design aspect cannot be overstated. As Micro Weighing Solutions (MWS Ltd) continues to provide innovative weighing solutions, it reaffirms its dedication to supporting the food industry in maintaining the highest standards of hygiene, thereby contributing to the safety and well-being of consumers worldwide.

Have a look at our British-made bench scales here. MWS is able to build bespoke, turnkey solutions, so if you don’t see what you are looking for, speak to one of our weighing specialists today who will be able to advise you on the best solution.