How are biscuits made in a factory?

Here's a breakdown of how biscuits are made in a factory, covering the key steps:

1. Ingredients Preparation:

* Flour: Flour is weighed and transported to mixing vats.

* Fats & Oils: Fats like shortening or butter are melted and added to the mixing vats.

* Sugar: Granulated or powdered sugar is carefully measured and added.

* Liquids: Water, milk, or other liquids are added to create the desired dough consistency.

* Other Ingredients: Baking soda, baking powder, salt, and other flavorings are added based on the biscuit recipe.

2. Mixing:

* High-Speed Mixers: Specialized high-speed mixers combine ingredients and develop the gluten in the flour. This process creates the texture and structure of the biscuits.

* Time & Temperature Control: The mixing time and temperature are precisely controlled to achieve the desired dough consistency.

3. Sheeting:

* Dough Sheeting: The mixed dough is passed through rollers to flatten it to a uniform thickness. This process creates the desired biscuit shape and ensures consistent baking.

* Cooling: The sheeted dough may be cooled slightly to control its elasticity and help prevent spreading during baking.

4. Cutting and Shaping:

* Cookie Cutters or Dies: The sheeted dough is then passed through cookie cutters or dies that punch out the individual biscuit shapes. These cutters can be simple circles or have intricate designs.

* Conveyor Belt: The cut biscuits are conveyed on a belt to the next stage.

5. Baking:

* Ovens: Biscuits are baked in large, specialized ovens.

* Temperature & Time: Baking time and temperature are crucial for achieving the desired golden brown color and soft, fluffy texture.

* Conveyor System: Biscuits move through the oven on a conveyor belt, ensuring even baking.

6. Cooling:

* Cooling Rack: Biscuits are transferred to cooling racks to prevent steaming and maintain their crispness.

* Quality Control: Quality control inspectors check for imperfections and ensure consistency in size, color, and shape.

7. Packaging:

* Packing Lines: Biscuits are sorted, counted, and packaged in various sizes and containers.

* Labeling: Packages are labeled with ingredients, nutritional information, and expiration dates.

* Storage: Packaged biscuits are stored in warehouses until they are ready for distribution.

Additional Notes:

* Automated Process: Many steps in biscuit production are automated, including mixing, sheeting, cutting, baking, and packaging.

* Variety: Factory lines can be adapted to produce various biscuit types, including sweet, savory, and even filled biscuits.

* Safety & Hygiene: Food safety and hygiene are paramount in biscuit factories. Stringent standards are maintained throughout the entire process.

Let me know if you have any other questions about biscuit production!