Cleaning in food production is a major challenge, particularly for confectionery manufacturers, where sugar dust stubbornly accumulates on equipment. When combined with moisture, this residue becomes difficult to remove and can lead to machinery malfunctions. To address these issues, Ricola evaluated new compressed air components and, in collaboration with CEJN, established a new standard by implementing the 208 Detect blow gun for cleaning in the food industry.

Since 1930, Ricola has stood for Swiss-quality herbal specialities. Today, the family‑owned company, headquartered in Laufen near Basel, is among the most modern and innovative confectionery manufacturers in the world. More than 60 varieties of herbal candies and tea specialities are exported to 45 countries worldwide. 

Workplace safety – a top priority

Safety at work is a top priority at Ricola. By upgrading from the 208 blow gun to the 208 Detect blow gun version and switching to the food‑approved CEJN eSafe 326 series, both workplace and food safety have been brought up to the latest state-of-the-art. The CEJN eSafe couplings can be conveniently operated with one hand. During the two‑stage disconnection process, pressure is released in a controlled manner, reducing noise levels and preventing injuries from hose recoil or whipping. Clamps that could pose an injury risk have been consistently replaced with streamlined connections featuring union nuts.

"Safety first must also apply to cleaning. Especially under stress, the risk of accidents increases"

 Maxime Andris, Safety Officer at Ricola. 

Ricola Herbal Drops. On the right, Maxime Andris, Safety Officer at Ricola. 

The 208 Detect blow gun is designed with food‑grade plastic and complies with both Suva regulations and strict food safety standards. Its detectability makes it particularly suitable for cleaning processes, helping prevent contamination risks. Together, these innovations enhance operator safety while ensuring the highest level of food safety throughout production. “By upgrading from the 208 blow gun to the 208 Detect blow gun and implementing the food‑approved CEJN eSafe 326, cleaning remains safe, clean, and compliant with hygiene standards despite all challenges”, Maxime says, adding: “With the introduction of the innovative world‑first 208 Detect blow gun, we are at the cutting edge of technology." 

The optimised working environment has improved not only safety but also workplace ergonomics. Spiral hoses and detect blow guns with 500 mm to 1,000 mm extension tubes increase working reach, enable flexible suspension, and help maintain an organised workspace. This noticeably boosts efficiency and employee satisfaction.  

“By upgrading from the 208 blow gun to the 208 Detect blow gun and implementing the food‑approved CEJN eSafe 326, cleaning remains safe, clean, and compliant with hygiene standards despite all challenges”

 Maxime Andris, Safety Officer at Ricola

Energy-efficient solutions for an optimised production process

Sustainability is a core part of Ricola’s corporate philosophy. As part of a compressed air optimisation process, all key components were aligned and bottlenecks eliminated to increase airflow and improve overall energy efficiency.

Additionally, reliability and service quality are essential to Ricola’s operations. Short response times, excellent accessibility, and knowledgeable points of contact form the foundation for trust and long‑term collaboration with partners. A key criterion in selecting the new equipment was compliance with strict food industry regulations. Both the detect compressed air blow gun and the food‑safe version of the eSafe 326 series fully meet FDA requirements and EU Regulation 1935/2004. Together, these upgrades ensure that Ricola not only achieves higher energy efficiency and operational reliability but also maintains the highest standards of food safety.

Head Office: Basel, Switzerland
Founded: 1930
Number of employees: about 600
Industry: Food and Beverage
Products: Herbal Drops, Drink Cubes, Instant Teas
Markets: Global
Website: www.ricola.com