Fruit processing lines
Introduction
Agroindustry is the economic activity that integrates primary production with industrial and commercial processes, aimed at the transformation, conservation and distribution of agricultural, livestock, forestry, fishing and other biological resources. Its main objective is to increase the added value of raw materials, extend their durability and facilitate their availability over time.[1].
Agribusiness has its antecedents in the Industrial Revolution, a period during which mechanical and technological processes were incorporated into agricultural, livestock and fishing production. This incorporation marked a transition from the traditional economic activities of the primary sector towards transformation processes typical of the secondary sector. From then on, products of natural origin began to be processed to improve their conservation, facilitate their transportation and expand their marketing possibilities.[1].
Over time, agriculture has ceased to be seen solely as an initial stage of economic development. Thanks to the incorporation of technology, the integration of processes and new market demands, it has adopted characteristics typical of the industrial sector. This evolution has given rise to a more complex and interdependent agroindustry, where primary production and food transformation tend to be integrated into the same process.
Agroindustry plays a relevant role in the modern economy, since it allows perishable raw materials to be transformed into products with a longer useful life and added value. This process contributes to guaranteeing food supply, facilitates distribution in regional and international markets and promotes the development of production chains linked to different sectors. Likewise, it has enabled access to a wide variety of ready-to-consume products, which responds to the demands of current production and consumption dynamics.[1] In addition, it contributes to strengthening more sustainable and inclusive food systems, essential to eradicating extreme poverty and guaranteeing food security in the face of a constantly growing world population. Its development boosts the economy, especially in vulnerable regions, and is key to mitigating the effects of crises such as climate change, conflicts or rising prices.[2].