Astra launches upgraded KA-750PM peeler with color display and added features
New model improves usability, durability, and fruit processing options for global retailers.
JAPAN – Japanese fruit peeler manufacturer Astra has launched its latest model, the KA-750PM, just in time for the northern hemisphere’s harvest season, where pineapples, mangos, and melons see a spike in demand.
The KA-750PM is the latest version in Astra’s peeling machine lineup, now equipped with a full-color LCD screen to simplify operation. According to Ryo Takeshita, Astra’s sales manager, the screen marks a significant change from the earlier model.
“This model maintains the same peeling performance. The biggest change is the new color display. The old model only showed peeling depth and spin speed with two numbers, but now the display provides much more information, including short animations that demonstrate how to insert fruit and how different settings affect peeling quality. This makes the machine much easier to understand, reducing the chance of incorrect usage.”
The display isn’t the only improvement. He also said the machine has become more durable. In the past, he noted, some units were damaged during shipping because of their compact design and rough handling. To address this, the company now uses stronger materials to protect the machines during transport.
Ryo explained that the new model is also better suited for extreme conditions. The company tackled issues of fruit juice entering the machine under high humidity and heavy pressure.
He added that they had introduced a new pineapple coring attachment, which allows users to remove the core quickly and smoothly right after peeling. He admitted this addition had been a bit of a challenge to develop but said it is now easy to use.
Support for retail sales
Astra believes the new machine can help stores improve both their efficiency and customer appeal. Ryo said their goal is to help retailers reduce labor costs and boost sales by offering neatly peeled fruit to customers.
He used pineapples as an example, saying that they are difficult to peel by hand and that many customers are willing to pay more for pre-cut fruit.
“Ready-to-eat cut pineapples sold in supermarkets are often processed in factories and then shipped to retail stores. But pre-peeled pineapple is quite perishable when kept on the shelf for a longer time or when the surrounding temperature changes during processing or transport. The quality of the fruit deteriorates, and the fruits easily rot. This not only results in food waste at the store but may also lead to consumer complaints,” said Ryo.
To deal with this, some retailers now peel fruit in-store. He mentioned that some stores are now using the KA-750PM as part of their fruit displays.
By placing the machine next to pineapple shelves, customers can have the fruit peeled on-site. Ryo said this setup attracts attention and even acts as a promotional tool for increasing fruit sales.
Focused updates, one year at a time
Astra continues to make regular improvements to its products. Ryo noted that the KA-750 series has seen four major updates in the past four years.
These changes include a 2% increase in peeling yield rates, extended blade life, a 10 kg reduction in machine weight, and now the addition of a color screen. He expressed hope that these updates would help clients recover their investment faster, reduce waste, and increase productivity.
In addition to the KA-750 series designed for large fruits, Astra also produces models like the KA-700H and FAP-1001 for peeling smaller fruits such as apples, oranges, and kiwis.
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