CIP (Cleaning-In-Place) systems are critical for the safety of milk processing. FAO and DG AGRI show that modern plants have a specific consumption of 150–250 liters of water per processed ton for CIP cycles, with detergent consumption reduced by up to 30% thanks to automated systems. In contrast, semi-automated units have consumption levels 40–60% higher.

Eurostat confirms that in 2024 more than 70% of large EU plants use fully automated CIP, compared to less than 50% in Central Europe. INS data show that in Romania the level of digitalization is heterogeneous, but modernized units have reduced microbiological non-compliances by 25–35% after implementing automated CIP.

Temperature and flow control during CIP cycles is essential. Deviations of ±3°C can reduce cleaning efficiency by up to 20%, according to FAO. Modern systems monitor parameters in real time, reducing the risk of cross-contamination—a factor that, in DG SANTE assessments, accounts for over 50% of major non-compliances.

For 2025, standardization of automated CIP will become mandatory for exporting plants, as cleaning traceability is integrated into European audits.

(Photo: Freepik)