How to Choose a Versatile Canned Fish Line for Sardines, Mackerel, and Beyond

The canned fish market is booming, with sardines and mackerel leading the way as nutrient-rich, affordable protein sources. For processors, this growth presents a clear opportunity—but only if your production line is equipped to deliver consistent quality, operational efficiency, and the flexibility to adapt to changing consumer demands.Whether you’re launching a new facility or upgrading existing equipment, selecting the right production line is one of the most impactful decisions you’ll make. In this guide, we break down the key technical, operational, and strategic factors to help you invest with confidence.

Core Stages of a High-Yield Canned Fish Line

A fully integrated sardine and mackerel canning line includes the following stages, each critical to output quality and safety:

1. Can Unloading & Washing​

· Automatic can de-palletizing

· Inverted air- or water-jet can washing

2. Fish Pre-Processing​

· Gentle washing and grading

· Head cutting, gutting, and sizing

3. Filling & Seasoning​

· Precision filling with weight check

· Oil, brine, or sauce dosing systems

4. Seaming & Closing​

· High-speed vacuum closing to prevent oxidation

5. Sterilization & Cooling​

· Steam or water immersion retorts (up to 125°C)

· Controlled cooling to preserve texture

6. Labeling & Packaging​

· Auto-labeling, case packing, and palletizing

A well-designed line, like those engineered by LWT, allows quick changeovers between fish types and can sizes—maximizing your operational flexibility.

6 Key Decision Factors for Your Canned Fish Line

1. Target Throughput & Scalability

· Small scale:​ 1,000–3,000 cans/hour

· Medium scale:​ 3,000–8,000 cans/hour

· Large scale:​ 8,000–15,000+ cans/hour

Choose a system that can grow with your business. Modular designs allow you to start efficiently and scale without full-line replacements.

2. Level of Automation

· Semi-auto:​ Requires more manual handling but lower initial cost

· Full-auto:​ Reduces labor by up to 70%, improves consistency, and enhances hygiene

· Smart Industry 4.0:​ Features IoT monitoring, predictive maintenance, and real-time OEE tracking

3. Food Safety & Certification Ready

Insist on:

· 316 stainless steel​ contact surfaces

· CIP (Clean-in-Place)​ systems

· HACCP & ISO 22000​ compliant design

· Full traceability from raw material to finished can

4. Equipment Reliability & Longevity

Look for:

· Robust frames and food-grade construction

· Reputable components (Siemens PLCs, SEW motors, etc.)

· A manufacturer that offers a 3+ year warranty

5. Supplier Experience & Support

Your equipment partner should provide:

· Customized layout and factory planning

· On-site installation and training

· 24/7 remote support and local spare parts access

6. Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)

Look beyond the purchase price. A reliable, energy-efficient line with low maintenance needs will yield a faster ROI—often within 2–3 years.

Why Global Brands Trust LWT for Canned Fish Lines

Shanghai LWT Intelligent Technology Co., Ltd brings over 15 years of specialized experience in designing and manufacturing fish canning solutions for processors in 80+ countries.We help you:

· Start smart​ with compact lines from 1,000 cans/hour

· Scale efficiently​ with mid-speed systems up to 6,000 cans/hour

· Dominate your market​ with high-output lines exceeding 12,000 cans/hour

What Sets LWT Apart:

· Quick-Change Tooling:​ Switch between sardine, mackerel, or herring canning in under 30 minutes

· Energy-Efficient Retorts:​ Save up to 20% on steam consumption

· Integrated Quality Control:​ Check-weight and metal detection included

· Global Service Network:​ Installation, training, and technical support worldwide

ROI Example: Typical Efficiency Gains with an LWT Line

Most clients achieve a full return on investment within 24 months thanks to higher throughput, lower waste, and reduced labor costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can one line process different fish species?​A: Yes. LWT lines are designed for versatility. Quick-adjust mechanisms allow you to run sardines, mackerel, tuna, and similar species.Q: What certifications do your machines hold?​A: Our equipment is CE certified and complies with major international food safety standards, including FDA and EU regulations.Q: What’s the lead time for a typical project?​A: 45–60 days for standard lines; 75–90 days for highly customized layouts.Q: Do you offer training for our operators?​A: Yes. We provide comprehensive on-site training for operation, cleaning, and basic maintenance.Q: Can you help with factory layout planning?​A: Absolutely. We offer turnkey solutions including plant design, equipment sourcing, and automation integration.

Ready to Build Your Competitive Advantage?

The right production line is more than machinery—it’s the foundation of your product quality, brand reputation, and profitability. With LWT, you gain a technology partner committed to optimizing your output, minimizing downtime, and future-proofing your operation.Contact us today for a free, no-obligation line design proposal tailored to your needs.​➤ Request a Quote​➤ Download Our Sardine Canning Line Brochure​➤ Schedule a Video Call with Our Engineering Team​