Middleby Food Processing has partnered with Rockwell Automation to develop the industry’s first fully automated bacon production line, which was unveiled earlier this year at the IFFA tradeshow in Frankfurt, Germany. This innovative project marks a significant milestone in the food manufacturing sector.
As the demand for effective, adaptable, and sustainable food processing solutions rises, Middleby Food Processing sought Rockwell’s expertise in providing a unified automation platform. This collaboration aims to address the evolving challenges within food manufacturing.
Middleby Food Processing required a scalable solution to help clients manage soaring labor costs, confined spaces, and increasingly stringent sustainability regulations. Rockwell stood out due to its extensive engineering experience, seamless integration capabilities, and proven track record in future-proofing production systems.
“Premier integration of Rockwell Automation equipment across the Middleby Food Processing brands was key to our decision,” said Mark Salman, president, Middleby Food Processing. “We needed long-term flexibility and interoperability across machines. Rockwell delivered that, along with robust engineering support and best-in-class programming practices.”
Rockwell’s solution incorporates FactoryTalk Optix, which standardizes operator interfaces and application code libraries—such as Machine Builder Library and Device Objects. This consistent programming structure streamlines equipment operations. Consequently, service technicians can troubleshoot and support systems remotely while enabling real-time data strategies and enhancing production agility.
“We are proud to support Middleby Food Processing’s vision for the future of food production,” said Steve Pulsifer, senior manager, partner marketing, Rockwell Automation. “This collaboration shows what’s possible when innovation and automation come together. This fully automated bacon line improves throughput, reduces labor and wastewater usage, and raises the bar for food manufacturing.”
While this bacon production line represents a breakthrough, Middleby Food Processing is expanding its automation efforts across various food segments, including bakery and protein. Powered by Rockwell, these adaptable solutions empower customers to customize systems according to their unique operational needs, allowing them to maintain a competitive edge in the dynamic food manufacturing landscape.
