Taylor Farms is rolling out new, fully automated technology for its fresh-cut foodservice vegetable production.
Currently at its Yuma production plant, the company is introducing robotics to fully automate its production process.
"This technology allows us to enhance efficiency while also continuing to deliver upon the quality food and worker safety standards that we've set for ourselves and that our customers expect from us," said Mark Borman, president of Taylor Farms Foodservice Group.
To achieve its first fully automated line ready for installation and full automation of all 22 lines in the flagship facility in Salinas by 2027, the company crafted machines to its plant's specific needs.
Some technology is pulled in from other industries, like the pack-out robotic arms that would be right at home in a Detroit car factory now used to pack salad bags into boxes. Other technology is first-of-its-kind–like new, state-of-the-art automated drying machines to replace equipment requiring strenuous manual labor to operate and prioritizing cutting-edge sanitation and food-safe design.
The company's carousel dryers are designed to continuously operate while preventing bruising and waste from product spillage and loss. The new system is also more sustainable, with just three dryers processing the same amount of lettuce that used to require 10, empowering the company to harness significant energy savings and benefit from a more streamlined factory floor.
The company is embarking on this technology vision by automating all 22 lines by 2027.
Taylor Farms is also researching how to automate labor-intensive broccoli and cabbage harvesting to improve quality and yield. Each new technological feat helps the company achieve its safety and quality goals to bring product to customers.
"We have been delivering fresh produce for 30 years and know that to continue delivering high-quality produce and salads, we need to continue to innovate for the future," said Marcus Shebl, Taylor Farms vice president of foodservice operations. "This automated machinery opens new doors for us and our customers, and we are extremely excited about what is next."
"We pride ourselves on being a company where team members can thrive and receive long-term career development to bolster their success," said Lisa Hearne, Taylor Farms senior vice president of foodservice sales. "It is exciting to provide new opportunities for our team members to continue their careers here and allow for long-term growth at the company."
The company is embarking on this technology vision by automating all 22 lines by 2027.
For more information:
Rachel Molatore
Taylor Fresh Foods, Inc.
Tel: +1 (831) 676-9680
rmolatore@taylorfarms.com
www.taylorfarms.com