Written by Saurabh Malhotra, Product Manager, Bühler SORTEX.
Written by Saurabh Malhotra, Product Manager, Bühler SORTEX.
For food processors, there is a constant battle against food hazards. A single mistake can have devastating consequences, not only for brand reputation, but also for profit, and the health of consumers. As climate change brings new challenges, and the global population continues to grow, it has never been more important to get food safety right. Because here’s what can happen if it goes wrong.
Recalls. A word that can give processors nightmares. To explain product recalls, imagine a supplier of peanuts. The peanuts are prepared, packaged, shipped, and sold. Unfortunately, it comes to the attention of regulators that the peanuts have a higher dose of aflatoxin than is legally permitted. At great cost, the goods are returned, destroyed, and the reputation of the brand damaged.
Luckily, there is a solution which dramatically reduces the chance of product recall. At Bühler we have specialist optical sorters using a unique inspection system and cameras to identify harmful peanuts effected by Aflatoxin whilst simultaneously sorting out foreign materials like bones, sticks or stones. By integrating optical sorters at key points in the production line, contaminants are removed before they reach packaging, significantly reducing the risk of recalls.
Even if the processor avoids a formal recall, a single incident of a consumer finding a foreign object in the product can lead to a wave of complaints and bad publicity. Social media can amplify these issues quickly, potentially leading to a crisis. Examples are a consumer finding a stone in their cereal, or glass in their rice.
To combat consumer claims, optical sorting offers a proactive approach to food safety, minimizing the chance of foreign objects reaching consumers. This not only protects brand reputation but also fosters consumer trust in the quality and safety of products.
The most severe consequence of compromised food safety is the potential for consumer illness. This includes humans, livestock, and pets. Contaminated food can cause anything from mild food poisoning to serious health complications, leading to lawsuits and even fatalities. An example is the growing awareness around allergens, where gluten-free oats can be contaminated with glutenous barley or rye.
Mycotoxins, a group of toxic fungi that grow on crops, can also cause terrible problems when ingested by livestock or humans. Fortunately, even mycotoxins (which are invisible to the human eye) can be detected by SORTEX InGaAs technology. This keeps consumers safe, while giving processors peace of mind.
Optical sorting technology is a powerful quality gate for ensuring food safety throughout the production process. It offers a cost-effective and automated solution that minimizes the risk of recalls, consumer claims, and illness. By prioritizing food safety, brands are not only protected but also contribute to the well-being of consumers.
