by Mitch Lund
In the latest feature by Baking & Snack, Minor ingredient automation tightens up operations, the industry is buzzing about the shift toward automated handling of minor and micro ingredients. While efficiency and waste reduction are often the primary drivers for capital investment, HaFSBX is leading a different conversation: the impact of automation on public health and workplace safety.
The Precision of Wellness: How Micro Ingredient Automation Supports The Promise on the Package
Our very own Mitch Lund, Business Development Manager at HaFSBX, was recently consulted for his expertise on why “going small” with automated ingredient handling leads to “big” wins for bakeries, and why.
Not only is product more consistent in quality because of the accuracy of automation... “it means bakeries will be in better compliance with their nutritional targets for vitamins and salt levels." — Mitch Lund
In an era where consumers are scrutinizing labels for sodium content and fortified nutrients, manual scaling is no longer just an efficiency risk—it’s a compliance risk. By automating, food producers ensure that every loaf meets the exact nutritional promise on the package.
Protecting the Heart of the Bakery: The People
Precision is vital, but so is the longevity of the workforce. Manual ingredient handling is often the grind of the bakery—repetitive, dusty, and physically taxing.
As Lund pointed out in the article, automation transforms the environment:
• Reduced Ergonomic Risk: Eliminating the repetitive lifting and bending of 20- to 50-lb bags.
• Respiratory Health: Minimizing employee exposure to airborne dust from ingredients.
• Cleaner Operations: A tighter system means a more sanitary workspace and fewer injuries.
By automating delivery, you reduce risks associated with the repetitive lifting and bending as well as exposure to dust that employees would otherwise endure,” Lund said. “This leads to fewer injuries and a cleaner work environment.
Leading the Industrial Transition
At HaFSBX, we believe automation shouldn’t just be about “taking a pit-stop out of a race.” It should be about building a smarter, safer, and more transparent food system. Whether you are managing salt levels for heart-healthy lines or protecting your team from the physical demands of the mixing room, we are here to engineer those solutions.
About HaFSBX
HaFSBX designs turnkey systems for projects of all sizes. Our team understands our customers’ concerns and takes the time to listen, develop a plan, and communicate along the way. If you need someone you can trust and want to eliminate the stress of managing the details of your next project, contact us today to discuss your next project and how our team can help.
About The Author – Mitch Lund
Mitch has been with HaF Equipment for more than 4 years and leads business development for HaFSBX in the baking and snack sectors. He has been in ingredient handling for 14 years and can be found at many of the industry trade associations HaF actively supports, including ABA, BEMA, and ASB. Mitch is a graduate of the University of Minnesota’s Chemical Engineering program and is passionate about helping customers grow and improve their businesses.
