New Technology Scans Carcasses For Contamination
Food safety, of course, is a top priority for our nation’s food processors.
In addition to numerous other interventions, poultry processors also train employees to visually inspect carcasses for potential defects prior to final USDA approval.
This system of visual screening, however, is only as good as the human eye. Thus, in a continuing effort to push the food safety envelop even further, researchers have now proven that computer imaging can lend a helping hand.
The US Agricultural Research Service (“ARS”) has announced the development of an automated hyperspectral imaging system that can accurately detect food safety and quality defects (including small amounts of fecal contamination) on poultry carcasses. Hyperspectral imaging is a technique that combines digital imaging with spectroscopy, creating individual wavelengths of light that pinpoint contaminants.
The new system was developed, in conjunction with Stork Food Systems, by ARS scientists at the Quality and Safety Assessment Research Unit in Athens, Georgia. Notably, a prototype was recently tested in a poultry plant to evaluate its performance under commercial conditions. In the trial, carcasses were imaged after evisceration (but prior to washing) at a rate of 150 birds per minute. According to reports, the system ran successfully for several days. Nevertheless, while the initial trials showed great promise, researchers are still working to refine the system to better avoid false-positives.
The ARS researchers are also collaborating with the Environmental Microbial and Food Safety Laboratory in Maryland, which has developed a similar on-line system designed to differentiate diseased poultry carcasses from those that are wholesome. The system relies upon the same imaging technology, but uses different wavelengths.
In any event, the two groups are now attempting to merge the systems into a single unit, which will include an imaging camera and detection software. According to reports, the team plans to have a prototype of the joint system ready for further trials later this year.
Congrats to all.
