Rising demands for hygiene and product quality in the food industry, driven by strict international standards such as HACCP, ISO 22000, and NSF, have pushed manufacturers to adopt highly accurate and efficient technologies to meet compliance requirements and safeguard margins. Minebea Intec, a global leader in weighing and inspection solutions, offers tailored systems to address these challenges.
The risks of foreign body contamination in food production are significant, with up to 23% of recalls in industrialized countries stemming from such incidents, according to the FDA and EU RAPEX database. The consequences of recalls include high costs and potential reputational damage, highlighting the importance of preventive measures and advanced detection systems.
HACCP Compliance and Critical Control Points
The HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) system mandates that food producers identify and manage hazards at critical stages of production. Minebea Intec’s technologies, such as the Mitus metal detector with MiWave technology, are designed to ensure compliance by detecting even minute foreign particles in food, enhancing safety without compromising production output.
“High sensitivity and precision are key to our solutions,” said Linus Dellweg, Global Product Manager at Minebea Intec. “The Mitus metal detector ensures that food products meet stringent safety and quality standards.”
In addition to metal detection, Minebea Intec’s X-ray inspection systems, such as the Dymond series, offer comprehensive solutions for detecting glass, stones, certain plastics, and bones. These systems also verify packaging integrity and fill levels, ensuring products meet international hygiene and safety standards.
ISO 22000 and Traceability
ISO 22000 establishes global food safety management requirements, emphasizing traceability and personnel training. Minebea Intec’s dynamic checkweighers monitor product weight in real time, immediately detecting deviations to ensure consistent quality. The introduction of the Blue HMI user interface further streamlines operations with intuitive navigation and enhanced automation capabilities.
‘The design concept of Blue HMI is based on what we are familiar with from our daily use of high-tech devices. The user-friendly menu navigation and new workflows make it much easier to use and reduce the training period,’ says Lars-Henrik Bierwirth, Global Product Manager at Minebea Intec.
NSF Certification and Hygienic Design
Minebea Intec’s MiNexx 3000 weighing platform, certified by the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF), exemplifies the company’s commitment to hygiene. Its easy-to-clean design minimizes cross-contamination risks, while its precision ensures accurate filling and weight determination, critical for maintaining product quality and compliance.
Software Solutions for Traceability and Efficiency
Minebea Intec complements its hardware with innovative software like SPC Enterprise and ProRecipe XT. These tools enhance traceability by collecting and storing quality data, enabling quick identification of issues and reducing recall risks. ProRecipe XT is particularly beneficial for regulated industries, ensuring precise dosing and real-time monitoring of production processes.
Comprehensive Support for Food Producers
Minebea Intec extends its expertise beyond technology, offering end-to-end support from consultation to installation and ongoing service. This holistic approach ensures clients meet international food standards while optimizing production processes.
As the food industry faces increasing scrutiny and rising costs, Minebea Intec remains a trusted partner in ensuring product safety, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency.