Faster food composition analysis using NIR

For food processors and manufacturers, a composition analyser can be an important instrument for the production line process. These analysers can not only test the makeup, efficacy and quality of food products but also assist in evaluating a host of constituents besides moisture, including proteins, fats, oils, contaminants, BTU, water activity, carbon content, film thickness and coat weight.

“With the right calibrations, operators can employ a composition analyser during any stage of product development from R&D through production to ensure a quality result,” said John Bogart, Managing Director of Kett US, a manufacturer of a range of organic composition analysers.

However, in many cases, using traditional testing methods to determine a sample’s composition can be time-consuming and labour-intensive.

Of course, the costs of insufficient testing due to excessively lengthy test cycles can be even greater — if undetected, food contamination or product flaws can lead to recalls and a damaged reputation.

Fortunately, with the right instruments and planning, lengthy test cycles can be reduced while improving food industry quality control.

“Using cutting-edge instruments like Near Infrared (NIR) composition analysers that provide almost instant, lab quality test results can make all the difference during development and production. This monitoring can be essential not only for precision and correct composition but also for safety and compliance,” Bogart said. By simplifying the process, food manufacturers can increase the quality of their products from raw input, formulation and processing to end product manufacturing and distribution, Bogart said.

NIR composition analysers are designed to produce test results in a fraction of the time of traditional methods. Instruments can take a reading over the test subject or product stream for online models as well as desktop models, such as Kett’s BS-F1700 Compact Fiber Beat Sensor. Light is transmitted through the sample if translucent or transparent, or reflected off the process sample with models that measure the amount of light absorbed by the subject. The absorbance readings are then converted into component values by analysing the composition of the subject based on the instrument’s exact calibrations.

“Today, NIR spectroscopy provides non-destructive laboratory quality readings in real time. Often, this requires no sample preparation and no contact with the sample,” Bogart said.

Full-spectrum testing allows users to measure a broad range of targeted factors in real time, with only initial instrument calibration needed.

“Switching from direct composition analysis to NIR composition analysers can reduce testing costs by as much as 90% for several reasons,” Bogart said.

Bogart explained that NIR composition analysis cuts the amount of labour required for each test cycle, eliminates the need to purchase and then pay for the disposal of chemical reagents needed for testing, and decreases the instances of human error that mandate repeat testing.