ROBOTICS PRODUCTION LINE Soft Robotics' mGrip technology gently conforms to the shape of the produce. Photo: Soft Robotics Road to Robotics FOOD PRODUCTION INDUSTRY ENTERING ERA OF AUTOMATION EXPANSION By Zeke Jennings Managing Editor THE FOOD INDUSTRY is entering an era similar to one the automobile industry went through decades ago. Automation is coming, that we know. How and to what capacity remains to be seen. Robotics was featured prominently at PACK EXPO Las Vegas last fall. Machines that can grip, sort and pack could be found throughout the massive show floor, and there was even a Robotics Zone area dedicated solely to the latest technology. For produce processors, many of whom already are dealing with skilled and unskilled labor struggles, replacing human workers with PRODUCE PROCESSING 5