The food and beverage sector in North America has a long-standing reputation for delivering safe, high-quality products. However, factors such as shifting global trade, labor shortages and rising operating costs are creating new challenges. According to CRB’s Horizons: Digital Age of Food Manufacturing report1, only 37 percent of food companies have adopted real-time analytics or digital production tools, often citing cost and complexity as barriers.
Policymakers are advised to take note of this challenge, as assisting food manufacturers to adopt new technologies can deliver significant economic benefits. Increased productivity enables companies to expand output, raise wages and enhance production flexibility. This enables better adaptation to market demands and supply chain disruptions. China provides a strong example, having prioritized digital manufacturing at the government level, with the aim of supporting over 10,000 factories in their transition to digital operations.2
This gap between potential and implementation presents a clear opportunity. Inspection technology that aligns with modern production needs can support greater output, stronger compliance and faster response to evolving conditions.
Productivity through smart inspection
Fortress Technology develops inspection systems that go beyond detection. Their metal detectors, checkweighers and X-ray systems are designed to accurately detect physical contaminants, verify weight, streamline production and provide actionable insight through integrated data collection. These systems help manufacturers reduce downtime, support changeover agility and maintain consistent performance across production runs.
For example, Contact 4.0, Fortress Technology’s digital monitoring platform, provides real-time access to performance data, automated recordkeeping and centralized system oversight. This eliminates the need for manual data collection and helps ensure that compliance records are always audit-ready.
Lowering barriers, extending capabilities
Many manufacturers are cautious about digital transformation due to perceived risks around integration or disruption. Fortress Technology addresses this by designing user-friendly systems that require minimal training and can be deployed into existing infrastructure with minimal modification.
Legacy systems also remain supported through the company’s Never Obsolete Commitment. Equipment installed decades ago can still receive software updates and digital enhancements. This approach helps manufacturers extend system life, reduce capital expenditure and gain access to newer capabilities without replacing entire systems.
Sustainable efficiency and competitive readiness
Inspection systems that operate with minimal resource waste, compact footprints and automated calibration functions contribute to both operational efficiency and environmental sustainability. These features support lean manufacturing principles, lower utility consumption and reduce material loss — important factors in a sector facing growing demand and constrained resources.
In addition to meeting internal benchmarks, smart inspection systems support external expectations as well. Global trade and consumer transparency standards continue to rise. Facilities equipped with traceable, data-driven food safety practices are better positioned to manage recalls, respond to inquiries and maintain buyer confidence.
Preparing for the future of food manufacturing
Productivity in food manufacturing must be resilient, traceable and adaptable. Fortress Technology supports this evolution with systems that improve performance without adding complexity. By integrating food safety with digital insight and operational efficiency, their equipment helps manufacturers move from reactive to predictive operations.
In an increasingly volatile market, preparation is an advantage. Manufacturers that align food safety with digital innovation will be best equipped to adapt, compete and lead.
"Success in today’s turbulent food market hinges on the ability to predict, plan and adapt," notes Eric Garr, regional sales manager at Fortress Technology. "Productivity is central to this transformation. Manufacturers that embrace innovation and sustainable practices will be best positioned to lead in tomorrow’s competitive markets."
