The machine made its debut at Interpack in Dusseldorf, Germany, (May 4-10) and has already received an order in Asia.
Currently in production
The system accurately places, positions and secures sticks in molds prior to candy being deposited.
Keith Graham, marketing manager, Baker Perkins, told ConfectioneryNews, the unit is part of the ServoForm range of lollipop depositors, which comprises a depositing head, cooking tunnel and two stick placers – an existing one for ball and lollipops and now this one for flat lollipops.
“The unit was supplied to a customer in Asia and is currently in full production,” he said.
“The company, which we can’t name due to confidentiality requirements, is expanding its presence in that market with an existing product range and wanted a machine that would not only increase output but improve quality.”
According to Baker Perkins, flat lollipops are ideal for character merchandising linked to television, films and video games and depositing gives a clear image on the candy.
Engraved branding or logo
A servo controlled stick feeder places the stick in the molds and an alignment mechanism makes sure they are positioned correctly before being pressed into clips that hold them in place while the candy syrup is deposited and cooled around them.
As well as flat lollipops, Baker Perkins supply ServoForm systems for 3-Dimensional, ball and double ball lollipops in a variety of shapes.
“The unit is for flat lollipops although the bottom of the mold could be 3D/contoured or engraved with branding or a logo,” added Graham.
“One of the quality improvements that the customer for this machine was looking for was an improvement in the definition of a brand image on one side of the lollipop.
“The system can deposit up to four colors simultaneously to create striped, swirled, layered or filled products. The fillings can either be hard candy (with a contrasting flavor such as a sour) or a soft gel.”
He added varying the colors, flavors, patterns, fillings and textures allows potential for an unlimited product variety and greater production flexibility compared to die forming processes.
The ServoForm lollipop depositor can produce lollipops for sugar-free varieties and there is an option to add medicinal or nutraceutical elements.
As well as the ServoForm depositor, Baker Perkins’ lollipop systems include automatic weighing, feeding, dissolving, and color/flavor/acid addition, plus the Microfilm cooker - the industry standard for sugar and sugar-free high boiled lollipops and candies.
