See the benefits of sorting technology

Implementing sorting technology can significantly reduce the risk of contamination from aflatoxins and foreign material, driving up food safety on the production line and offering a smart investment for processors and manufacturers.

The food industry is growing significantly and facing productivity, economic, efficiency and environmental pressures more than ever before. Increasing demand on the world’s food resources has made the food supply complex and multifaceted, with a global supply chain bringing many benefits but also presenting a major food safety headache. The longer and more complicated the chain is, the higher the risk of contamination and spoilage.

In the first quarter of 2017, nuts, nut products and seeds were responsible for most recalls in the European food sector, followed by fruit and vegetables, and fish or fish products. Bacterial contamination was behind 24% of the food product recalls, aflatoxins 20% and unauthorised ingredients 13% (Stericycle ExpertSOLUTIONS).

Effective sorting and quality analysis systems can play a critical role in enhancing food safety.

The sorting process for many different types of produce starts in the field, by identifying larger and more obvious defects and foreign material that should not be entering the processing plants and facilities. This means that items such as stones, glass or metal can be picked up and removed in the field.

Further along the process, sensor-based optical sorters have the ability to consistently detect and remove foreign material, unwanted rot, greening defects, blemishes and damage. This ensures higher yields and a safer, higher quality final product going to consumers. Additionally, the sensor-based technologies applied in the different optical platforms allows processors to specifically target their needs in each step of the process.

Sensor technology is increasingly identifying defects in produce, ensuring higher resolution and better contrast, and the technology used will continue to improve in quality and food safety. In addition, the ability to employ data management when using machines means that more real-time monitoring and controlling of production lines is possible, creating further efficiencies.

At foodpro 2017 TOMRA Sorting Solutions will join Heat and Control at Booth i41 to showcase a wide range of optical sorting solutions. An interactive touch-screen display will allow visitors to gain an insight into TOMRA’s advanced range of sorting machines.

With a wide portfolio of state-of-the-art sensor-based sorting and processing technology for both the fresh and processed food industries, TOMRA offers solutions for a multitude of food applications, including potatoes, meat, fruits and vegetables.

The company’s advanced sorting machines can inspect millions of individual product pieces per hour, typically recovering 5–10% through higher yields and better utilisation. The sorting machines can increase processing capacity and lower labour costs, all while producing food of the highest quality and safety standards.

TOMRA Area Sales Manager Gurjinder Singh will be attending foodpro 2017 and will be available to speak to visitors wanting assistance with optical sorting and inspection equipment.

One of the company’s most advanced pieces of equipment, the HALO Optical Sorter, is the latest advancement in sensor-based optical sorters for a high-performance sort/grade on quality, size and food safety. The product combines intelligence with advanced control to provide sort flexibility and accuracy in a reliable, long-life, compact sorter.

The HALO Optical Sorter.

The foodpro exhibition will showcase the latest global innovations and trends within the food manufacturing and processing industry and will attract over 8500 visitors. In 2017 the event will take place at the International Convention Centre, in Sydney’s Darling Harbour, from 16–19 July. Admission is free for food industry professionals — register here to streamline your entry.

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