From wedges to fries: expand your product range and increase productivity
In the potato processing industry, downtime is not an option. Market demands are continuously evolving: consumers expect variety, retailers require consistent quality and processors face labor shortages and rising costs. Meanwhile, there is growing pressure to operate more efficiently, reduce waste and produce more sustainably. How do you meet these demands and expand your product range without compromising productivity?
More variety without losing efficiency
Today’s consumers expect a wide array of potato products: traditional fries, wedges, potato croquettes, waffle-cut fries, potato slices and many more. For producers, this means more frequent product changes, more complex processes and higher expectations for cutting precision. At the same time production lines need to keep running efficiently, minimizing waste and avoiding downtime due to changeovers or unexpected stops.
In short: how do you respond to the demand for variety while simultaneously increasing the productivity of your potato processing lines?
Smart cutting technology and flexible lines
At Marcelissen we believe that higher yields begin with smarter cutting. Our potato cutting machines, such as the Slitmaster 105, are engineered to deliver multiple cut shapes with high precision and minimal waste. This machine produces perfectly straight fries with exceptional accuracy. The Slitmaster series offers the industry’s most efficient and reliable cutting solution for potato processing.
Our integrated fry lines combine peeling, cutting, sorting and conveying into one seamless flow. This significantly reduces changeover times and increases hourly output. At the same time it optimizes use of raw materials: less cutting waste means more saleable kilos per batch.
We also take a holistic approach by looking at how your entire processing chain, from intake to packaging, can be optimized. Our lines are scalable and adaptable to your specific situation and growth plans.
How a modular processing line boosts productivity
A strong case study is our collaboration with a large Czech potato processor called Bramborárna. They operated outdated machinery in need of replacement. Due to growing demand for new potato products, they lacked a flexible production line capable of quickly and effectively producing multiple end-products. Using the same system for fries, wedges and slices quickly brought them to capacity limits. As a result, they sought significant expansion of both product options and production capacity.
We implemented a fully new production line that is modular in design and tailored to their needs. One major challenge was processing potatoes of various shapes and sizes. Our solution was the innovative Hydro Cutter. With this machine, the processor can now cut potatoes into different formats. Its quick-change blade system enables seamless transitions between product types with minimal downtime. This level of flexibility is vital for a business that is continuously expanding its product range.
Machines that elevate your potato processing
If you want to combine productivity and product variety in your potato processing, here are the practical solutions that Marcelissen delivers:
Start/Stop Segmenting Machine: This unique feed conveyor carefully layers potatoes for optimal cutting. Using a start-stop multi-lane system, it can divide potatoes into two, four or six pieces.
Hydro Cutter: Use this machine to cut potatoes precisely into fries, wedges or slices. With a capacity up to 15,000 kg/hour, our Hydro Cutters are customizable to individual requirements.
Complete French Fries Line: The final product determines the line design. Marcelissen delivers a wide range of machines tailored to your capacity and product specifications. Through a balanced approach of standardization and customization, you receive an efficient, scalable line built for the future.
Each machine may be used independently or seamlessly integrated into a full food processing line.
Collaborating on your process optimization
At Marcelissen, we offer not just standard solutions, but also tailored systems. We always start with a thorough analysis of your current process and engage with you to optimize it. Where is waste occurring? Where can time and raw material be saved? Which technology offers the greatest advancement?
We involve you actively in the design process and aim for solutions that deliver short- and long-term benefits. Whether you are expanding existing lines or undergoing complete redesign, we support you from start to finish.
Would you like to expand your product range and boost your productivity? Contact Marcelissen today. We will deliver proven, practical solutions that increase your output and reduce waste.