Heat and Control Introduces Advanced On-Machine Seasoning Platform for High-Speed Snack Lines
Heat and Control has launched the FastBack® Symphony On-Machine Seasoning (OMS) System, an advanced solution for snack food producers that aims to set a new benchmark in accuracy, hygiene, and sustainability in the seasoning process. As the industry faces rising demand for bold flavours, clean-label formulations and enhanced operational efficiency, the Symphony OMS responds with a system that combines precision engineering and smart dust control.
Developed in response to shifting consumer and regulatory expectations, Symphony OMS addresses mounting pressures on processors, including allergen control, stringent sanitation protocols, and ongoing labour shortages. By tightly integrating ingredient containment with highly controlled application, the system ensures uniform seasoning coverage while minimizing airborne particulates and reducing product waste.
Dust Control and Precision Take Centre Stage
As processors increase seasoning application rates—moving from 6% to upwards of 12%—traditional OMS platforms have struggled to maintain consistency, often generating excess airborne dust and requiring intensive sanitation efforts.
The Symphony OMS incorporates a patent-pending combination of Seasoning Capture and Seasoning Containment technologies. These innovations work in tandem to draw fugitive seasoning back into the product stream and prevent its dispersion in the plant environment. A cyclone-based dust collection system further reduces airborne particles and cleaning requirements.
The result is a controlled seasoning zone that not only ensures better chip-to-chip coverage but also supports improved allergen management and operator safety.
Operational Efficiency and Maintenance Gains
Designed to streamline operations, the Symphony OMS system offers multiple gains across the production line. According to the company, the technology achieves up to 30% more seasoning-on-product performance and reduces dust collection loads by as much as 30%.
The system also simplifies cleaning and reduces downtime, thanks to a modular design that includes 50% fewer removable parts and tool-less operation. Unlike many competitor systems, Symphony OMS components are engineered for extended durability and do not require a preventive maintenance schedule.
High-Volume Compatibility with Seamless Integration
Tailored for high-speed, high-volume snack lines, Symphony OMS features a fully integrated architecture built around next-generation components, including the new single-loadcell WeighBack, a redesigned powder feeder, FastBall application module, and a removable stainless steel tumble drum. These components interface with FastBack 4.0/250, TASC (Totally Automated Seasoning Control), and a magnet-based connection system that simplifies assembly and disassembly.
The inclusion of a sealed infeed auger cover and an end-cap cyclone dust collection system reinforces its sanitary design and supports safe handling of allergenic or fine particle ingredients.
A Forward-Looking Solution for Snack Manufacturers
With increasingly complex production demands, the Symphony OMS offers manufacturers a future-ready platform capable of delivering the precise seasoning coverage, allergen control, and resource efficiency required in today’s global snack markets. Positioned as the company’s most advanced OMS system to date, the launch signals a strategic push towards integrated, high-performance seasoning solutions that prioritise safety, sustainability, and product quality.
