A new state-of-the-art tea processing machine has been unveiled ushering in a new era of automation in tea drying, pre-sorting and continuous fermentation units..
The innovation is not only set to transform the industry but also play a pivotal role in ensuring consistent production of high quality tea.
The machine allows real-time monitoring and adjustment given its latest technology which ensures that tea leaves are fermented to perfection.
“It maintains consistent fermentation process, enhances the flavour and aroma of the tea leaves while reducing the chances of spoilage,” Eng Michael Cherutich, Tea Machinery and Engineering Company Limited (TEMEC) General Manager said.
He said the new innovation promises to reshape the tea industry, optimise efficiency and ensure unparalleled quality throughout the tea production process.
"Traditionally, tea production has been a labour-intensive endeavour, with meticulous manual processes from start to finish," he said.
Speaking in Nairobi, Cherutich said the automated tea dryer is equipped with a cutting-edge screw conveyor which combines intelligent technology with precision engineering to create the perfect drying environment for tea leaves.
“The technology allows monitoring and precise control of the tea drying process to ensure produce is dried to perfection, preserve their natural flavours and aromas while mitigating the risk of over or under-drying."
The GM added that the automated dryer is significantly faster and increases production efficiency.
On pre-sorting automation, the system leverages on sophisticated algorithms, swiftly and accurately identifying and segregating tea leaves based on their intrinsic quality and size.
“This advanced sorting technology considerably minimises the risk of inconsistent blends and ensures the final tea product is optimised for superior quality,” Cherutich said
Experts in the tea industry have hailed the innovation and highlighted the significant benefits the automated systems bring.
They said labour costs will be reduced, consistency in tea production heightened and the overall quality of tea products improved.
One of the experts said the machine has played a pivotal role in supporting tea factories to enhance the quality of teas they produce.
"By providing cutting-edge technology and automation solutions, TEMEC has empowered these factories to meet stringent quality standards and elevate their production processes,” he said.
The expert observed that owing to the new innovations, the tea produced has gained recognition for its consistency and exceptional quality in the global market .
"With these ground-breaking solutions, the company has streamlined the entire tea production process, ushering in an era of unparalleled efficiency, quality and sustainability in tea production,” he said.
A brighter, more automated future for the tea industry was on the horizon, the expert observed.
