Automation isn’t a luxury — it's survival for fruit processors: BIG interview with Ryo Takeshita, ASTRA, Inc.

Every second counts in the fresh-cut fruit industry. Yet, behind every neatly packaged fruit cup or juice bar ingredient lies a tedious, wasteful, and labor-intensive process: peeling. Slow, inconsistent, and prone to human error, manual peeling not only drives up labor costs but also chips away at profits through unnecessary waste. But what if precision and speed could go hand in hand?

Enter ASTRA Inc.’s latest innovation — the KA-750PM. Designed for large-scale fruit processors, this peeling machine doesn’t just automate a tedious task; it redefines efficiency.

We sat down with Ryo Takeshita, Sales Manager at ASTRA Inc., to discuss what sets this new model apart, how it’s shaping the future of fruit processing, and why automation is no longer a luxury — it’s a necessity.

Fructidor: What inspired the development of the KA-750PM, and how does it improve on previous models — or stand out from competitors?

Ryo Takeshita: We designed the KA-750PM with large-scale fruit processors in mind. The biggest upgrade is the color display, which improves operation visibility, making adjustments easier and reducing user errors. We also fine-tuned the peeling performance to ensure high precision while minimizing waste.

Compared to competitors, ASTRA’s blade-based peeling method preserves fruit quality far better than abrasive techniques, which can damage delicate produce. Our approach ensures the fruit maintains its natural texture and moisture, making it a superior option for businesses focused on quality.

Fructidor: Many businesses struggle with the time and cost of manual peeling. How does your technology address this pain point?

Ryo Takeshita: Manual peeling is slow, inconsistent, and expensive. It not only drives up labor costs but also leads to unnecessary waste due to human error.

The KA-750PM peels fruit in seconds with consistent precision, reducing labor requirements dramatically. This allows businesses to scale production, lower costs, and maintain high product standards without the inefficiencies of manual labor.

Fructidor: How does your solution help reduce waste and support eco-friendly practices?

Ryo Takeshita: One of the biggest advantages of our precision blade system is that it removes only the skin, maximizing yield and minimizing waste. Businesses get more usable fruit per batch, reducing losses.

Some of our customers also repurpose the peels for composting, food extracts, or even cosmetics, making the process more sustainable. Our technology helps businesses waste less and do more with their produce.

Fructidor: Beyond peeling speed, what other features should businesses consider when choosing a machine?

Ryo Takeshita: Speed is important, but reliability, ease of use, and versatility are just as critical. The KA-750PM’s color display simplifies operation, and its adjustable settings allow businesses to peel different types of fruit with high precision.

Durability and easy maintenance are also key — our machines are built to last, ensuring businesses can operate smoothly without unexpected downtime.

Fructidor: How does the right peeling method affect fruit texture and shelf life?

Ryo Takeshita: Peeling isn't just about removing the skin — it affects freshness and shelf life. Abrasive peeling methods can damage the fruit’s surface, making it dry out faster. Our blade system minimizes surface damage, preserving the fruit’s natural texture and moisture. This extends shelf life and keeps the fruit looking fresh for longer, which is crucial for retail and foodservice businesses.

Fructidor: With demand for fresh-cut fruit on the rise, what trends do you see shaping the industry in the next five years?

Ryo Takeshita: We’re seeing four major shifts:

-Automation will become the standard – more companies are investing in smart food processing equipment to boost efficiency and reduce labor dependency.

-Sustainability will be a priority – businesses will seek eco-friendly solutions that optimize yield and reduce waste.

-Demand for exotic and specialty fruits will grow – pre-cut tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, and dragon fruit are gaining popularity, requiring advanced processing solutions.

-Stricter food safety regulations – companies will emphasize hygienic, easy-to-clean equipment to comply with evolving safety standards.

Businesses that adapt to these trends with automation and efficiency-focused solutions will gain a competitive edge.

Fructidor: What regions do you see as the next big growth markets for ASTRA?

Ryo Takeshita: Latin America is a major growth area, especially Colombia and Peru, where fruit exports are booming. With increasing global demand, efficient processing solutions are becoming essential for exporters and fresh-cut businesses in the region. Automation is no longer optional — it’s a necessity for staying competitive.

Fructidor: Can you share a real-world success story of a company implementing your technology?

Ryo Takeshita: A mango processor in the U.S. was struggling with labor-intensive peeling and inconsistent results. After adopting the KA-750PM, they tripled their processing speed, reduced labor costs by 40%, and cut down on waste. Not only did this improve efficiency, but it also allowed them to expand production and meet growing demand — a perfect example of how automation transforms operations.

Interested in upgrading to the KA-750PM? Send your inquiry today for a free consultation!