Close×

Ecolean has more than doubled the capacity on its new EL1+ filling machine for chilled family-sized liquid food packages.

The EL1+, Ecolean’s fourth machine launch within two years, features a new, simplified design that, according to Christian Olsson, director of filling lines at Ecolean, allows customers to produce more with less in the same footprint.

“We are proud to develop our proven and existing technology even further to help food and beverage producers do more with less.

“We know that the industry continuously evolves and so should the efficiency of our equipment. Ecolean strives to make operations easier for our customers as well as keeping both the footprint and environmental impact light. The EL1+ and our recent machine upgrades support that commitment,” said Olsson.

The EL1+ can handle Ecolean Air 500ml, 1000ml and 1500ml packages.
The EL1+ can handle Ecolean Air 500ml, 1000ml and 1500ml packages.

The redesigned filling chamber includes four fillers instead of two, which increases capacity by up to 140 per cent; the machine can fill up to 7000 packs per hour.

It also features a redesigned outfeed, a new human-machine interface, and an Omron control system with a virtual master servo axis that Ecolean says improves machine performance and ease of operation.

Lastly, its fully automated cleaning system of the filling zone ensures the same level of hygiene at the start of every production cycle, the company says.

Food & Drink Business

The federal government has released the latest round of Industry Growth Program (IGP) recipients, alongside news that the program is going on indefinite hiatus following the 2026 Budget. Several food sector companies were awarded, including A-Culture Holding, Algenie, and VeraSys.

Asahi Group Holdings has appointed Nigel Parsons as CEO of Asahi Europe & International, taking over the role from Dragoș Constantinescu, who will depart at the end of June.

Integrated organic meat producer, Hewitt Foods, has entered into an agreement to acquire family-owned beef company, Nolan Meats, with the transaction expected to be completed in the second half of 2026.