Depending on the needs, the line can be customized to produce different types of candy such as hard candy, gummy candy, milk candy with a variety of shapes. In this article, let's join Intech Group to learn about the overview of the production line that is widely used today.

Benefits of investing in a candy production line

Currently, consumer demand is increasing, using a modern candy production line is an essential solution to improve efficiency and ensure product quality. Compared to the manual candy making method, the automatic production line helps production facilities meet large, stable and uniform output in terms of flavor, color and quality.

In addition, the candy production line also helps businesses optimize operating processes, save labor costs and minimize errors during processing. Nowadays, production facilities apply advanced machinery and technology, so hard candies, gummy candies or milk candies can be continuously produced with standard quality, thereby improving the competitiveness of businesses in the food industry. This is a necessary factor to help confectionery brands build reputation and expand the market effectively.

Candy production line process

The automatic candy production line is designed to produce hard candies on an industrial scale, ensuring high productivity and stable quality. The operating process of this line usually includes the following steps:

Step 1: Mixing

The first stage in the line is the mixing step that determines the flavor and chemical properties of the product. This process consists of two parts:

• Combining sweeteners (such as sucrose, anti-crystallization agents)

• Combining flavoring agents.

The reducing sugar content is strictly controlled within the range of 12–18% to ensure that the candy does not retain sugar. In particular, when cooking in a vacuum oven, the reducing sugar content usually does not exceed 2%, helping the product to achieve higher quality.

Step 2: Dissolve

The crystal sugar is dissolved in water in a minimal amount to avoid wasting heat. Incomplete dissolution or using too much water can affect the quality and efficiency of candy cooking.

Step 3: Preheat

The sugar solution will be preheated before being put into the vacuum cooker. This process helps to improve the concentration efficiency, but the time must be controlled to avoid premature crystallization or burning due to sucrose decomposition.

Step 4: Cook candy

There are two common candy cooking methods:

• Cook candy at normal pressure: Temperature is about 120°C, need to closely monitor the boiling state and check the concentration by dropping the solution into cold water.
• Vacuum candy cooking: The process takes place at low pressure, helping to save energy and stabilize product quality.

Step 5: Cooling

Candy after cooking is cooled quickly to prevent recrystallization and maintain adhesion. Usually, a stainless steel cooling table with a water circulation cooling system is used to absorb heat quickly.

Step 6: Shaping

Candy is shaped according to a mold or round/flat balls depending on the design, ensuring uniformity in size and shape.

Step 7: Packaging

Candy after cooling will be packaged in an air-conditioned environment (about 20°C) and humidity below 60% to avoid moisture absorption. The wrapping paper must hug the candy tightly, not torn and tightly twisted at both ends.

Types of machines used in candy production lines

In an automatic candy production line, integrating specialized equipment is an important factor to help improve productivity, quality and ensure product stability. Here are some types of machines used in candy production lines you need to know:

1. Seed roaster

This type of machine is used in the production of candies containing ingredients such as cashews, peanuts, almonds, etc. The roaster helps to cook the seeds evenly, keeping the original flavor and crispness before mixing.

2. Candy liquid cooking and concentrating machine

This is the main equipment in the candy production line responsible for cooking sugar solution and other ingredients at high temperature, then concentrating the mixture to the appropriate dryness to form candy. Vacuum cooking technology can be used to save energy and ensure quality.

3. Finished product mixer

After cooking and condensing the candy, the candy mixture is put into the mixer to mix evenly with additives such as flavorings, food coloring, flavorings or roasted nuts. This stage helps to increase the flavor and richness of the product.

4. Shaping mold (Candy mold)

After mixing, the candy will be put into the mold to shape into pellets, bars, fruit shapes or special shapes depending on the needs. The mold can be designed according to the requirements of the business to create unique products.

5. Conveyor belt

Conveyor belts are responsible for transporting raw materials and products between stages in the chain. The conveyor system ensures continuous production, reduces travel time and limits unnecessary mechanical impact.

6. Automatic rolling and cutting machine

The rolling machine helps to spread the candy block evenly before shaping, while the cutting machine will cut the candy block into pellets or bars of precise size. All are done automatically, ensuring speed and accuracy to increase productivity compared to manual work.

7. Packaging machine

Automatic packaging machine will wrap candy with paper or aluminum foil, ensuring tightness, aesthetics and compliance with food safety standards. Some packaging systems integrate additional dehumidification, vacuum sealing machines, bag sealing machines to extend the preservation time.

Classification of candy production lines by technology

Depending on the nature of the product and processing process, candy production lines can be classified according to the following main production technologies:

Hard candy production line

Specialized in producing candies such as lollipops, candy, etc. This line requires sugar cooking technology at high temperature, rapid concentration and forming candy with a hard, crispy texture.

Gummies production line

Using the technology of mixing gelatin, marshmallow, pectin or adhesives to create soft, flexible products such as gummy candies, chewing gum... The process requires strict control of temperature and humidity to maintain the toughness and characteristic flavor of the candy.

Areca candy production line (coconut candy)

This is a line specially designed to produce traditional candies such as areca candy, coconut candy... The equipment must be able to withstand high temperatures and be able to process natural ingredients such as coconut milk, ginger, or lemon peel to create a characteristic flavor.

Peanut Candy Production Line

Suitable for producing candies with main ingredients of peanuts, almonds or other nuts. The line includes a nut roaster, raw material mixer, mold and fast packaging machine to keep the crunchiness and characteristic aroma of the nuts.

Candy production lines are all designed specifically for each business to optimize performance, ensure finished product quality and suit each product line. Choosing the right production technology not only helps businesses optimize costs but also creates a competitive advantage in the increasingly growing confectionery market. Contact Intech Group now for advice on the production line suitable for your business.