Commercial food

How to choose a scale for weighing commercial food

Scales can be used to weigh meats, fruits, vegetables and various other types of food in restaurants, warehouses and markets, among other settings. Plus, they come in numerous shapes and sizes to meet a business’ specific needs. So how do you choose the right one? Here are some things to consider when selecting a commercial scale for weighing food.

Weighing capacity

All scales have weight limits, including both maximum and minimum requirements. A high-capacity scale is ideal for measuring large quantities of bulk ingredients, while a low-capacity device works best for smaller portions and expensive ingredients like spices. Before purchasing a scale, be sure to check the weight capacity specifications to ensure you get a product that meets your needs.

Readability

A clear display helps ensure measurement visibility and accuracy. Scales can be either digital or mechanical. Digital scales tend to be more popular, as they display precise readings down to the last gram. However, mechanical scales are portable and don’t require a power source.

Hygiene

It’s essential to maintain good hygiene practices when working with food. Commercial scales must be easy to clean and sturdy enough to withstand repeated handling. Look for a scale that’s resistant to spills and frequent washing. Additionally, choose a stainless steel product that has a removable pan to make cleaning more efficient.

Types of scales

How you intend to use the device should be a major factor when choosing a scale. Common types of commercial food weight scales include:

  • Portion control scales, which are used to serve consistent portions.

  • Receiver scales, which are intended to weigh items in bulk as they arrive. They can be relied on to accurately record the inventory you receive.

  • Hanging scales, which provide a flexible way to measure irregularly shaped produce, meats and dry goods. They’re usually hung from the ceiling, but some can be handheld.

  • Price computing, or legal-for-trade scales, which determine the price of a product based on its weight or by connecting to a point-of-sale system that performs the calculations.

  • Baking scales, or balance scales, use a set of weights to provide precise measurements.

Commercial scales in Alberta

If you’re looking to measure food and other products with precision, Accurate/Western Scale Co. Ltd. can help. We offer a variety of commercial scales, including counting scales, price computing scales and precision scales in Calgary, Red Deer and Swift Current. We’re an approved service provider accredited by Measurement Canada. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services.


Recent News

What industries use industrial scales

What Industries Use Industrial Scales?

Industrial scales are a critical piece of equipment in Canada’s key industries, where accuracy and durability can directly impact a business’s safety, compliance, and profitability. From weighing raw materials to managing inventory, these... Read More
Digital computing 1024x683

How to Connect Your Retail Digital Computing Scale to Your Computer

Commercial retail scales are more than just weighing devices—they’re powerful tools that streamline retail operations, track inventory, and elevate data capture. Whether you’re using a standard retail price computing scale (like the Kilotech... Read More
Weigh Stations for Truck

What Trucks Have To Stop At Weigh Stations In Alberta?

Did you know? If you’re hitting the road in a truck other than a private passenger vehicle, you’re subject to commercial vehicle regulations. That means you’ll need to know its weight, especially if... Read More