At the recently concluded Anuga FoodTec 2025 in Mumbai, Mettler-Toledo India showcased its product inspection technologies designed to improve food safety, efficiency, and compliance. Speaking to Packaging South Asia, Siddharth Kachroo, head of sales product inspection, highlighted how the company is addressing evolving challenges in the food processing sector.
The company’s display centered on three core technologies. The first was metal detection systems, commonly used in dairy and meat applications where high sensitivity is crucial. These solutions aim to improve detection levels while reducing waste.
The second was X-ray inspection, a fast-developing technology suited for products in metallized or foil packaging where traditional metal detectors cannot function. “X-ray becomes essential in categories such as sauces, jams, ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook meals, infant foods in tins, and ice cream cones wrapped in foil,” Kachroo explained.
The third focus area was checkweighing systems capable of operating at speeds up to 540 packs per minute. These solutions help food manufacturers reduce losses from over-packing while ensuring compliance with under-packing regulations.
Kachroo observed that visitor engagement at Anuga FoodTec has deepened over recent editions, with customers increasingly bringing their own products to test on-site and requesting trials at their factories. “This reflects how quality discussions are taking place on the shop floor,” he noted.
On the broader market outlook, Kachroo emphasized India’s rising food demand, driven by a young, experimental consumer base and changing dietary trends. He pointed to the popularity of Korean flavors, visible in noodle launches and quick-service restaurant menus, as well as the emergence of categories such as Lahori Zeera, which has spurred large players to introduce similar offerings.
Affordability is also reshaping packaging formats, with smaller pack sizes making premium products more accessible. This, in turn, increases the need for automation and robust inspection systems. “With stricter regulations from FSSAI and rising awareness among consumers, demand for inspection solutions will only grow,” Kachroo said.
