Processing News SalMar’s new plant
SalMar has signed a major agreement with the Icelandic processing technology company Valka to deliver what is claimed to be the world’s most efficient processing system for whole salmon at its new InnovaNor plant.
THE Norwegian salmon giant says that under the deal, the cost of which has not been disclosed, Valka will build and install a ‘state of the art salmon grading and packing system’ at its processing plant in Lenvik, in the Troms region.
SalMar says it aims to create the world’s most efficient salmon factory by applying world class processes to reduce production cost, increase productivity, improve material handling and product quality. Production is expected to start in the second half of 2021.
The delivery from Valka includes a fully automatic grading and distribution system in addition to an integrated packing system with a processing capacity of up to 200 fish per minute.
Valkar, which is based south of the Icelandic capital Reykjavik, says its software suite for controlling the entire production process, from harvesting to dispatch of packed goods, is also part of the agreement.
Ole Meland, technical director at SalMar, said: ‘The InnovaNor plant will be the most advanced of its kind and we are excited to further work with Valka’s on this project which will change the industry.’
Kristjan Kristjansson, manager Valka, added: ‘SalMar is at the forefront in its sector when it comes to production and efficiency and we are really pleased to be selected for this extensive and ambitious project.
‘The project represents a meaningful step in strengthening Valka’s position in the salmon industry. It will be a challenging task, but we will do our utmost to meet and exceed the customer’s expectations.’