Cheese dairies are places where traditional craftsmanship meets state-of-the-art processes. At FoodTec Buildings, we specialize in creating precisely this connection. Whether it’s planning new production areas, refurbishing old facilities or using highly functional materials such as GRP, we develop solutions that enable cheese dairies to combine high hygiene standards with economic efficiency.
Why hygiene in cheese dairies is particularly sensitive
- Milk is a sensitive raw material: dairy products are perishable by nature. Therefore, clean surfaces and short cleaning cycles are a must.
- Versatile production processes: From cheese curd to maturing, different temperature and humidity zones are required. Each of these requires its own cleaning and hygiene concepts.
- Increasing quality requirements: Consumers are demanding more and more transparency, while at the same time manufacturing processes need to be sustainable and safe.
GRP as the ideal material for cheese dairies
One of our most important tools is GRP surfaces. Unlike smooth plastic panels, GRP panels have a light structure, which means that cleaning water runs off efficiently and germs have less of a chance. In combination with wall bonding, a germ-reducing environment can be created quickly and cost-effectively. As GRP is resistant to chemicals, even aggressive disinfectants can be used without any problems. This is particularly important if, for example, certain mold or bacterial cultures are to grow in cheese dairies in a controlled manner, while everything else must remain germ-free.
Building trends: Modern room layout and cold room construction
- Cold room construction for cheese: Different types of cheese require their own maturing chambers. We design cold rooms in such a way that optimum temperature stratification is guaranteed and no condensation collects on ceilings or walls.
- Zone separation with hygiene doors: In heavily frequented areas – such as between milk reception and cheese production – precisely fitting hygiene doors and insulated doors ensure that germs are not easily transmitted.
- Optimize layout: In addition to the structural aspects, we also advise cheese dairies on efficient production processes in which personnel and product routes cross as little as possible.
Refurbishment during operation: no problem
Many cheese dairies have been working in the same premises for decades. When demand increases or hygiene standards are tightened, refurbishment usually has to be carried out during ongoing operations. FoodTec Buildings has experience in gradually modernizing existing facilities so that production can continue.
- Gradual replacement: rooms are renovated one after the other, while other areas remain fully functional.
- Coordination with external trades: We work closely with refrigeration, electrical and cleaning companies to coordinate schedules and minimize downtime.
- Temporary solutions: Temporary partition walls and airlocks ensure that the level of hygiene is maintained at all times.
Automated cleaning and monitoring systems
When people think of cleaning technologies in cheese dairies, they often imagine manual methods. However, modern sensor technology and automated CIP systems are becoming increasingly popular here too. At FoodTec Buildings in particular, we make sure that structural solutions are a perfect fit for such automation approaches – for example, by designing walls with GRP so that high-pressure cleaners or foam systems can be used effectively. In close cooperation with the Wirth Group we develop holistic concepts that are not only geared towards structural optimization, but also towards the long-term efficiency and sustainability of production processes. We also work closely with Schwan Projekt GmbH to ensure that engineering services, building structures and hygiene technologies are optimally coordinated – for maximum efficiency and hygiene in cheese dairies.
Added value through data: smart sensor technology
Another trend is digitalization. Sensors measure pH values, temperature and humidity in real time. This data can even be compared with the production and cleaning steps so that cheese quality is constantly checked and optimized. We are already integrating these technologies into our planning and ensuring that the cable and network infrastructure is laid in such a way that hygiene zones are not impaired.
Why the Wirth Group is your ideal partner
Efficient hygiene concepts in cheese dairies are not dreams of the future, but are already a reality today with the right materials and construction approaches. FoodTec Buildings offers practical solutions – from the use of GRP and cold room construction to tailor-made refurbishment. This means that quality remains at the highest level and cheese dairies can concentrate on what they do best: producing first-class products.