Optimizing the Weighing Process in Frozen Shrimp Production for Export

The frozen shrimp export industry plays a crucial role in Ecuador’s economy, necessitating stringent adherence to product standards in order to maintain market trust and regulatory compliance. This study investigates discrepancies in the weighing process of shrimp exports, a critical aspect that directly affects customer confidence and economic outcome. Recent complaints from a key client regarding underweight shrimp shipments underscore the urgent need for process optimization. The implementation of an in-line weight control system using newly installed machinery is proposed to enhance operational oversight and packaging accuracy. Adopting a quasi-experimental research design, this study evaluated the effectiveness of this intervention by comparing pre- and post-implementation data through mixed methods. The integration of Six Sigma and other quality control methodologies aims to address immediate issues and foster continuous improvements in the production processes. This research contributes to the operational excellence of the Ecuadorian shrimp industry and provides a framework for exporters facing similar challenges. The anticipated outcome is a more reliable product delivery system with reduced weight discrepancies and increased customer satisfaction, which bolsters the industry’s reputation in global markets.