The chewing gum cooling tunnels – touted as a "manufacturing breakthrough" – are 40% smaller than Mondelēz’s previous tunnels and “significantly” faster.
UK firm 42 Technology partnered with Germany-based Gabler - Mondelēz’s previous cooling tunnel supplier - to develop the new tunnels that will be used to produce gum brands Trident, Dentyne, Clorets, Hollywood, Dirol, Stimorol and First.
The technology uses a combination of conductive and convective cooling technologies. 42 Technology said the new tunnels reduced work in progress (WIP) by 60% compared to the last version, but refused to divulge further technical information due to a commercial agreement with Mondelēz.
“What we can say is that we have significantly shortened the time needed for gum cooling and conditioning, one of the most time-consuming steps in the manufacturing process,” a 42 Technology spokesperson told ConfectioneryNews.
42 technology has also advised Mondelēz on optimizing other processes such as temperature and humidity control.
Mondelēz has been consolidating its gum production in Poland after announcing plant closures in Ireland , Botswana , Lebanon and Morocco.