The installation of a WaterMATIC KalGuard electrolytic scale inhibitor can dramatically reduce the need for scale treatment. Bourne Salads, suppliers of pre-packaged mixed-leaf salads have been trialing the unit in its tray wash areas.

Bourne's Barry Ingham said: 'We considered installing a water softener but KalGuard offered a more cost effective alternative.

'Since installing the KalGuard we just get a light powdery deposit that can be wiped off with a cloth, rather than hard scale that requires aggressive chemical to remove it.'