Vacuum packaging in production application.

The packaging makes it possible: vacuum cooling and packaging of bakery products in one operation.
Image: MULTIVAC Group

Cool packed: The packaging solution for hot bakery products

With Cooling@Packing, Multivac has developed a system that redefines the traditional cooling process for bakery products. These products can now be packed immediately after baking without a long cooling phase. The process also increases freshness and extends shelf life. For its innovative solution, the company was awarded the German Packaging Award 2024 and a Gold Award. 

“We’re in the final development phase,” says Thomas Fickler of Multivac. “Initial test projects are planned. And in a few weeks’ time, we’ll present a packaging machine with a Cooling@Packing station where the packaging and integrated cooling process can be demonstrated.” 

Efficient and fast: Advantages of vacuum cooling

The system is designed to integrate the cooling process into a fully automated packaging line that takes up less space and minimizes staff requirements. “Conventional cooling processes for bakery products are usually carried out via cooling coils at ambient temperature or in a separate cooling tunnel. Both approaches take up a lot of space in production facilities and involve high investment costs,” explains Fickler, product manager for thermoforming packaging machines at the company based in Wolfertschwenden, Lower Allgäu.

The system is integrated into a fully automated packaging line, saving space and staff requirements.
Image: MULTIVAC Group

Thanks to the reduced baking time, the ovens can produce more bakery products without compromising quality. The vacuum packaging immediately after baking ensures greater freshness and an extended shelf life for the baked goods – details that optimize the entire production process. The risk of product contamination during the cooling process is also minimized. 

“The baked goods can be taken from the oven and placed straight into the packaging machine’s open packaging cavities. This can also be done automatically using loading robots,” explains the product manager. Through vacuumizing in the packaging machine’s compartments, the baked goods are cooled from 95°C to approximately 30°C within a few seconds. 

Vacuum application with cooling process can also be used outside the baking industry 

The system is particularly suitable for industrial bakeries, especially for part-baked products such as baguettes, bread rolls and pretzel sticks where baking is finished off in store or at home, says Fickler. 

The Cooling@Packing systems technology can also be used for other applications in the food industry. “Basically, it can be used anywhere that products need to be cooled before packing.” 

The company 

Multivac is a leading machine manufacturer with more than 60 years of experience. The company provides complete solutions for packaging and processing food, medical and pharmaceutical products, and consumer and industrial goods. These can be used in small and medium-sized companies as well as in large corporations. With more than 80 subsidiaries in 160 countries, the Multivac Group employs around 7,400 people. The product portfolio includes packaging machines, portioners and slicers, automation solutions, labeling and inspection systems, and bakery technology. 

For more information:
https://multivac.com/de/de/company/news/german-packaging-award-2024
https://www.verpackung.org/events/deutscher-verpackungspreis/auszeichnungen/multivac-cooling-packing