Spanish packaging and food sectors advance through R&D and automation

In Spain, advancements in the packaging and food processing sectors are being driven by both research initiatives and industrial automation. ITENE has strengthened its role through the Innovation Agent for Packaging and Embalage, a position designed to bridge the gap between R&D and the business community. This initiative focuses on improving competitiveness in the Valencian Community by identifying industry challenges, promoting circular economy principles, and facilitating the transfer of sustainable technologies and new materials to the market.

Simultaneously, the food producer bonÀrea has implemented new automation technologies at its facility in Épila, Zaragoza. Through a collaboration between Coalza Systems and Irta Group, the plant has installed two independent production lines for nut packaging. These lines integrate high-speed dosing, quality control, X-ray inspection, and robotic end-of-line packing. The systems are designed to handle various formats, including pillow bags and Doypacks, to increase production flexibility and efficiency.