India ranks among the top producers of green peas (Pisum sativum), contributing around 3.86 million metric tonnes—approximately 2.5% of the nation’s total vegetable output. Major producing states include Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Punjab, Haryana, and Madhya Pradesh. Due to high perishability and high moisture content, peas require efficient preservation techniques such as freezing, drying, canning, or cold storage. When processed as frozen peas, they maintain nutritional value, color, and texture, especially when using Individually Quick Frozen (IQF) technology.
Frozen Pea Processing: Step-by-Step Overview
1. Pre-Freezing Preparation
- Peas are harvested, sorted, and shelled using mechanical podders and conveyors.
- Before freezing, they are blanched in boiling water or steam to deactivate enzymes that cause spoilage.
2. IQF (Individually Quick Frozen) Process
- IQF technology ensures that each pea is frozen individually, preventing clumping.
- This process retains natural flavor, color, and texture better than conventional freezing.
- Proper packaging using moisture-vapor-resistant materials and storage at -18°C or lower ensures shelf life up to one year.
IQF Technology: Equipment & Infrastructure
As a food industry consultant, PMG Engineering specializes in designing and equipping frozen pea processing plants using state-of-the-art technology. The IQF system comprises:
1. Processing Equipment
- Pea podders, inspection conveyors
- Washing systems, blanchers, aftercoolers
- Cross-collection conveyors, bucket elevators
- Dewatering conveyors, grain recovery systems
2. Freezing Equipment
- IQF freezer with polyethylene belting, SS coils, and airfoil fans
- Dual defrost mechanisms and refrigeration systems
- Conveyorized belt washers and insulated freezer enclosures
3. Auxiliary Equipment
- Boilers, ETP, RO plants, firefighting systems
- Laboratory tools, electrical infrastructure, and automation controls
As part of our food manufacturing consultancy services, we help clients design customized layouts and optimize process flow to reduce operational costs and energy usage.
Frozen Pea Plant Layout & Engineering Support
PMG Engineering provides plant layout design and project execution services for frozen pea and vegetable processing units. From concept to commissioning, we ensure:
- Regulatory compliance (FSSAI, HACCP, GMP)
- Utility optimization
- Food safety infrastructure
- Efficient material handling and automation
Whether it's a greenfield or brownfield project, our food consultancy services cover every aspect of the value chain, ensuring cost-effective, scalable, and hygienic solutions.
A layout of a green-peas processing plant
Market Trends & Consumer Preferences
In urban India, the demand for frozen foods is rising rapidly. Increased supermarket penetration and better home refrigeration infrastructure have made frozen peas and vegetables a kitchen staple. Frozen products offer long shelf life, nutritional retention, and convenience, aligning well with the busy lifestyle of today’s urban consumers. For entrepreneurs and food businesses, frozen pea processing represents a lucrative investment opportunity.
Conclusion
Frozen pea processing using IQF technology offers a reliable method for extending shelf life and meeting urban market demand. As an experienced food technology consulting firm, PMG Engineering is your go-to partner for food plant setup, project management, and end-to-end engineering consultancy.
References
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