Process reliability on the food distribution conveyor: SmartTray ID
The SmartTray ID from B.PRO digitalises the critical moment of food distribution, i.e. portioning on the conveyor belt based on patient-specific data. This increases safety in precisely the area where mistakes can have a direct impact. For this practical approach, the solution was honoured with the NEXT of Market Award in the Efficiency (Technology) category at INTERGASTRA 2026.
There is no room for uncertainty on the food distribution conveyor. Diets, allergies and special dishes must all be reliably taken into account, while time pressure and strict hygiene requirements set the pace. At the same time, human resources are limited in many places.
This is exactly where SmartTray ID comes in. It creates digital clarity where paper cards, manual visual inspections and an increased risk of errors previously determined the process. "On the conveyor belt, just a few seconds can determine whether the entire process remains stable or comes to a standstill," explains Lennart Scherf, who is in charge of automation at B.PRO. "Our aim was to make this phase of the process as clear and secure as possible."
From paper to QR code identification
The classic patient card is replaced by a compact label that is printed directly on the food distribution conveyor and applied to the respective tray here. Each label contains an individually generated QR code. All information relevant to portioning is stored digitally and automatically assigned to the tray in question.
Greater orientation during operations
The effect of the SmartTray ID can be seen directly in the workflow at the conveyor belt. As soon as the tray is registered, the associated information is clearly visualised at the individual portioning stations. The intended components are immediately recognisable – even with personnel changes or different language proficiency. Employees can concentrate on what they are doing instead of checking or interpreting information.
Hygienically well conceived
The SmartTray ID uses redispersible label paper with a completely water-soluble adhesive. During the dishwashing process, the label is automatically removed from the tray without leaving behind any residue. Manual removal is not necessary. As such, the separate, data protection-compliant disposal of large-format patient cards is also no longer necessary. This avoids additional work steps, while also reliably meeting hygiene requirements.
Integration without system disruption
"The SmartTray ID can be seamlessly integrated into existing processes," emphasises Lennart Scherf. "Prudent additions are made to existing automation modules on the food distribution conveyor, allowing processes to be digitally enhanced in a step-by-step approach." This increases the security of both investment and implementation, especially for smaller hospitals.
Excellent future potential
The SmartTray ID was presented with the NEXT of Market Award 2026 in the Efficiency (Technology) category at INTERGASTRA as a pioneering solution for commercial catering.
The jury not only honoured the technical innovation here, but also a concept that addresses specific challenges in day-to-day hospital operations: dependable processes, relief for staff and reliable implementation of individual nutritional requirements.
If you would like to see for yourself how this excellent solution works in practice, you will have the opportunity to do so at INTERNORGA in Hamburg. Visit us at the B.PRO stand B6 332 and experience SmartTray ID live. We look forward to talking to you in person.
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