Suitcase-sized NIR fat analyser ideal for smaller meat processors
The MeatScan analyser helps small and medium processors reduce costs because of the system’s rapid and accurate analysis of incoming raw material, meat industry manager Poul Erik Simonsen told FoodProductionDaily.com at the IFFA trade show in Frankfurt last week. The kit gives processors the opportunity to formulate recipes with greater precision and avoid overuse of more expensive lean meat.
“The device uses NIR transmission technology which enables it to penetrate into the product and produce a highly accurate reading,” added Simonsen. “This is important as fat content varies throughout meat.”
Cost savings, higher quality
He said use of the semi-automatic system means the fat/lean content of the meat to be processed could be adjusted in-line.
Measurement takes between one and two minutes and can be repeated at no cost. Easy and instant access to such accurate analysis also means processors boosts consistency and could ensure higher quality raw material supply. The technology has “proven benefits”, said Foss.
“The availability of regular analysis data also ensures that end products match specifications consistently, avoiding any nasty surprises and improving customer relations,” said a company statement. “An additional advantage is that regular testing of incoming raw material keeps suppliers on their toes leading to a reliable, high quality intake.”
Until now, such instrumentation from Foss, which offers an alternative to traditional chemical analysis, has only been available to larger-scale meat processors – at prices ranging from EUR 54,000 to 72,000, depending on the package. The company said the new equipment costs around EUR 25,000 and, because it is about the size of a small suitcase, can be placed close to the production line.
Chemical free analysis
The Meat Scan is also easy to use and does not involve the use of any chemicals.
“Instead of waiting for occasional analysis results from an external laboratory or relying on judgement and instinct, any meat producer can now do reliable analysis whenever they like,” said Foss.
Measurements are based on a database of over 20,000 reference meat samples accumulated by the company over decades of supplying carrying out routine analysis solutions to the meat sector.
The company also offers an after sales maintenance and calibration service.
“The new MeatScan is easy, flexible and cost effective for any meat producer – routine fat analysis is now an obvious choice as a way of reducing costs and improving consistency of end products,” said Simonsen.
