Yiwu launches automated jujube production line

The first automated production line for Yiwu jujubes begins operations. [Photo/Tide News]

The first automated production line for Yiwu nanzao (south jujube) began operations on Aug 26 in Jinhua, Zhejiang province, blending traditional techniques with modern technology.

At the workshop covering nearly 1,000 square meters, machines operate continuously as fresh jujubes travel along the line, undergoing sorting, washing, heating, drying, and boiling, transforming into Yiwu jujubes with a brilliant red color and rich fragrance.

Heating, a key step, uses boiling water to redden the fruit's skin. "Previously, two people managed this manually. Now, machines complete it in two seconds, ensuring even temperature and color," said He Dingsheng of Xingkai Family Farm.

The line features an advanced sorter that grades jujubes into eight categories, solving past sorting issues. Traditional sun-drying is replaced by rolling steel racks and mesh trays for efficient processing.

He said the line mimics traditional methods, with many machines custom-designed and patented. The automated production line reduces human intervention and weather impact, while increasing standardization and stability.

This automated line processes over 5 metric tons of fresh jujubes daily, yielding 1 ton of products, with an expected annual capacity of 50 tons.

With progressing automation, Yiwu's jujube industry aims for a full-chain output value of 200 million yuan ($29.76 million) by 2027.