Food and Beverages Tech Review: Specials Magazine

Big food safety labs look efficient—automated systems, global reach, and high-volume testing for pathogens, allergens, and residues. Data flows through LIMS software, and customer service is managed through ticket numbers and call queues. On paper, the process appears efficient, but in practice, it often falls short. A pathogen screen that should take 24 hours stretches into 72. Reports are delayed without clear explanations, and clients are left dealing with reps reading from scripts. The issue isn’t a lack of resources—it’s a lack of agility and connection. In a world where food safety risks move fast, your lab should move faster. This is where Alliant Food Safety Labs stands apart. As an independent lab with over 25 years of experience in food contract testing, it focuses on fast turnaround times without cutting corners. Results are delivered on time thanks to efficient systems, an experienced team, and a deliberate approach to managing volume. When other labs miss deadlines or leave clients in the dark, Alliant remains clear, fast, and accountable. Clients get direct access to scientists, quick answers, and testing that runs on time—every time. We designed every part of this lab to meet the real-world demands of food manufacturers and producers—from fast, accurate testing to clear, actionable support. Our goal is to help clients stay safe, compliant, and ahead,” says Jeffrey L. Krawczak, Lab Director. Where testing is urgent, Precision is critical and decisions can't wait. Clients trust Alliant Food Safety Labs for reliable, end-to-end service—combining industry and laboratory expertise to handle labeling, testing, compliance, and regulatory support, all through one experienced, easy-to-work-with team. Unlike many consultants who operate remotely and only offer documentation, Alliant conducts all testing, analysis, and reporting in-house. As a true process authority—with a foundation in thermal processing and a deep understanding of microbiology, acidified foods, and regulatory standards—the team brings broad and practical expertise to every project. Each study is tailored specifically to the client’s product. There’s no one-size-fits-all template. Multiple experts review every project, and when unexpected variables arise or additional questions come up, the team often conducts extra testing at no added cost to ensure accuracy and insight. This flexibility allows Alliant to adapt quickly, make real-time informed decisions, and deliver reliable, science-backed outcomes. Because the lab controls the entire process, there’s no red tape or unnecessary delays—just a streamlined, technically sound experience from start to finish.

The foodservice industry is undergoing a dynamic transformation, driven by cutting-edge equipment and technology, to elevate and redefine the dining experience. Middleby [NASDAQ: MIDD], a leading developer of advanced solutions for commercial, industrial and residential foodservice, is at the forefront of this transition, elevating commercial kitchens globally with its modern products and systems. It operates in three business segments, including commercial foodservice equipment, residential appliances and food processing solutions. Middleby’s wide range of high-quality, customized products under various categories, like cooking equipment and beverage solutions, are designed to meet the evolving customer needs. Some of its popular products include commercial griddles, charbroilers and fryers, which are designed to streamline food preparation while maintaining high-quality standards. “The company has developed innovative solutions that have been quickly accepted as the industry standard, allowing customers to automate production lines with a low cost of ownership,” says Timothy FitzGerald, CEO. Middleby constantly expands its product offerings and makes key acquisitions to strengthen its position. Products like heavy-duty frying systems, slicers and breading equipment give the company a competitive edge. Its wide range of brewing and dispensing equipment is perfectly equipped to cater to the growing demand for quality drinks. One of its flagship products, the commercial griddle, offers unmatched performance and a perfect cook with every use. These are designed to help restaurants maintain consistency and maximize efficiency, even during the busiest hours. Staying on top of future trends like automation, digital technologies and IoT is top of mind at Middleby. One of the most significant developments in its portfolio is integrating modern technology into commercial kitchens. Its open kitchen IoT system allows restaurant owners and operators to remotely monitor and manage commercial cooking equipment across multiple locations through an easy-to-use online dashboard. This gives real-time insights into equipment performance, alerts for maintenance needs and a clearer understanding of energy consumption, all of which contribute to running a more cost-efficient and productive kitchen.