BROSSARD, QUÉBEC — Equipment and technology supplier Luxme International Ltd released its new bag-slitting equipment that ensures food safety with the elimination of dust in March. The MINILux bag slitter allows for a faster feed rate and increased revenue and material recovery, according to the company.

The growing concerns of food safety and plant environments in the pet food industry prompted Luxme to create the new MINILux. The MINILux allows for high-volume, automated bag slitting that features optional self-contained dust collection, eliminating dust from plant environments and protecting the plant workers and processed pet food. According to Luxme, the MINILux recovers about 1.5% to 2% more product at a rate of about 1.8 to 2 times faster, compared to a single bag dump station.

With food-grade, USDA and FDA certified internal parts, the MINILux can open six 25-kg (55-lb) bags of all types per minute. The system features all-in-one conveying, including slitting, emptying, dust filtering and compacting. To ensure extra food safety, the MINILux boasts multiple clean-out areas for easy cleaning.

The MINILux’s dust collection prevents the need for a separate ventilation system, which would increase a company’s operating costs, according to Luxme. The dust collection system can be self-contained or sent off to a different system. MINILux’s self-contained dust collector recovers product and funnels it for reuse. The dust collector also offers an option for an added spigot, allowing connection to a central dust collector or venting system.

“MINILux is the technology of the future – its operating features increase productivity and deliver higher efficiency, better air quality, and workplace safety for a more profitable and ergonomic bag slitting solution,” said Rick Leroux, vice president and general manager, Luxme.

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