5 Conveyor Types Ideal for the Food Processing Industry

The food processing industry demands precision, hygiene, and durability in every stage of production. When it comes to selecting the right conveyor systems, businesses need solutions that align with FDA standards, are easy to sanitize, and ensure smooth product handling without contamination or product damage.

In this article, we highlight 5 conveyor types that are ideally suited for food processing facilities, and explain how Parab Conveyor Systems competes with global players like Cablevey and Bastian Solutions with custom-built, hygienic, and cost-effective alternatives.

🍼 1. SS Slat Chain Conveyors

Best for: Packaged goods, jars, bottles, and containers

SS slat chain conveyors offer a robust, hygienic stainless-steel design ideal for wet or spill-prone environments. These conveyors provide a flat, stable surface to move products in-line for filling, capping, or labeling.

Parab Advantage:

• Custom chain width and slat types
• GMP-compliant stainless steel structure
• Integrated guides and enclosures for clean transfer

Compared to Cablevey: Our systems offer a solid, cleanable surface instead of enclosed tubes, making them ideal for heavier items and more accessible for cleaning.

🥜 2. Z-Type Inclined Belt Conveyors

Best for: Transporting grains, powders, wafers, spices vertically

Z-type conveyors help maximize floor space while elevating product between two processing stages. Belts can be designed with food-grade cleats and covers to prevent spillage.

Parab Advantage:

• Load capacities up to 3 tons/hour
• Modular Z-configurations to fit compact layouts
• Stainless steel frames for food-grade use

Compared to Bastian Solutions: While Bastian delivers automation-ready conveyors, Parab offers fully custom Z-type conveyors with local engineering support for seamless integration into Indian plant layouts.

🥐 3. Flat Belt Conveyors

Best for: Raw produce, baked goods, and packaged snacks

Flat belt conveyors are the most versatile choice, supporting gentle transport of a wide variety of items. They are easy to clean and suitable for both dry and mildly wet products.

Parab Advantage:

• PVC, PU, and modular belts with anti-microbial properties
• Variable speed drives and incline options
• SS and MS build options with hygienic design

Compared to Cablevey: Cablevey's tube conveyors focus on powder and granular material; Parab's open flat belt conveyors allow for easier inspection, sanitation, and maintenance.

🌿 4. Wire Mesh Conveyors

Best for: Cooling, drying, or transporting hot items

Wire mesh belt conveyors allow air or water flow through the belt, making them perfect for cooling baked goods, washing vegetables, or draining items.

Parab Advantage:

• Stainless steel mesh in various gauges
• Custom belt pitch and speed
• Easy-to-clean, durable structures for food contact

Compared to Bastian: While Bastian offers automation-heavy solutions, Parab focuses on cost-effective, easy-to-maintain designs ideal for mid-size food operations.

🚗 5. Gravity Roller Conveyors

Best for: Final packaging and loading operations

Used primarily in dry areas, gravity roller conveyors are a non-powered solution for moving packed goods to inspection, loading docks, or palletizing stations.

Parab Advantage:

• SS or PVC-coated rollers for food-grade handling
• Adjustable height and modular design
• Seamless transition to powered lines if needed

Compared to Cablevey/Bastian: Most global systems focus on internal automated lines. Parab delivers practical, locally manufactured gravity conveyor systems optimized for Indian labor and process flow.

✅ Final Thoughts

From Z-type inclined conveyors to flat belt and slat chain systems, Parab Conveyor Systems delivers a full spectrum of food-grade conveyor solutions built for Indian and international standards. Our focus on customization, affordability, and GMP-compliance positions us as a strong contender against global competitors like Cablevey and Bastian Solutions.

Need help choosing the right conveyor for your food processing unit? Contact Parab Conveyor Systems today and let our experts engineer a hygienic, reliable solution for your line.