Collecting moisture and oil measurements during snack food production can offer several benefits. When moisture and oil data are available in real time, the operator can make adjustments quickly to resolve any issues. This leads to improved product quality, less waste and more satisfied customers. Snack foods, such as crackers, potato chips, pretzels and breadsticks, are dependent on having the correct moisture and oil content to maintain texture and appearance. MoistTech’s IR-3000F moisture measurement sensor is a line addition to expertly collect moisture and oil content data for delicious snack foods that meet quality standards.
Importance of Measure Moisture
Many snack foods are beloved for their signature crisp texture. Consumers expect a crunchy product and not one that is soggy and limp. In addition to texture, an excess of oil can cause products such as chips and crackers to taste stale. Measuring moisture and oil during chip processing is critical to product quality. Having too much or too little moisture and oil can drastically impact production and quality. By continuously monitoring moisture and oil content, line personnel can avoid downtime and product waste. A variance in moisture content affects product quality. Moisture variability can degrade product quality in ways beyond simple weight and texture changes, including accelerating chemical reactions, promoting microbial growth and impacting shelf life. Excessive moisture can also lead to problems, such as sticking, uneven curling or drying and reduced functionality, especially in powders and mixtures used to create snack foods.
- Moisture can speed up chemical reactions, such as lipid oxide, which can cause rancidity and flavor changes.
- Too much moisture provides the environment for molds, yeasts and bacteria to thrive, which can cause spoilage and potential food-borne illnesses.
- Excessive food moisture can impact their usability and interfere with the drying, curling or setting process.
- Moisture accelerates the degradation of food quality to lead to a shorter shelf life.
- Moisture causes clumping or caking, which affects the flowability and consistency of powders and mixes.
Measure Moisture with the IR-3000F
MoistTech’s IR-3000F series moisture sensor is used for food applications. It is constructed from cast aluminum IP65 NEMA 4 rated, and the original glass window is made of food-grade Kel-F. The IR-3000F features plug-and-play technology, so it can be placed wherever it is needed throughout the line. In almost all food production lines, the ideal location will be before and after the drying process. By monitoring both locations it will create a closed-loop process for the customer to know the amount of energy usage from the drying process and optimize the dryer to save money. Monthly energy costs have the potential to reach thousands of dollars. By monitoring moisture, it can greatly improve those costs by utilizing the dryer at optimal temperatures and periods of time. During the potato chip manufacturing process, it is important to know the moisture and oil content after the fryer/oven outlet, as it can have a drastic effect on quality, consistency, taste, appearance, stability and shelf life. Additionally, excessive oil and moisture, as well as a variation in moisture and oil in chips, can result in discoloration and out-of-specification products. Testing moisture during this part of the process allows for adjustments to be made prior to reaching the point of being uncorrectable. When snack foods exit the oven, they often have oil, cheese or other coatings applied. The IR-3000F can effectively ensure the consistent and uniform application of these coatings for even distribution and consistent product quality.
Benefits of IR-3000F
The IR-3000F offers benefits that set it apart from other moisture measurement sensors. MoistTech uses Near Infrared (NIR) technology for superior moisture measurement. Thanks to the non-contact nature of the sensor, there is no product waste when collecting samples. There is also no downtime required to collect data to keep the line running efficiently. Sensors can be installed at any point on the line, and moving the sensor is a simple process. The on-line sensors can be installed into any hopper, silo, material line, belt or screw conveyor. Line operators can access the moisture results on an external display or PC. When an out-of-tolerance level is detected, the operator can easily make adjustments to improve product quality and reduce waste. Most levels can be noticed within a 0.5% range. The sensors are unaffected by heat or humidity, so you can be assured you are receiving an accurate measurement, no matter where the sensor is placed on the line. MoistTech’s moisture sensors are guaranteed not to drift, and they will never need to be calibrated.
Contact MoistTech for a Quote
Boost the quality of your snack food production with a moisture measurement sensor. The IR-3000F collects data on moisture and oil content to ensure the product is at optimal levels. Contact MoistTech today for more information and to receive a quote.