HILLEROD, Denmark, September 16 FOSS-Food-Testing
HILLEROD, Denmark, September 16 /PRNewswire/ -- FOSS has extended the
availability of software functionality that helps to spot adulterated raw
milk.
The software allows MilkoScan(TM) analysers based on Fourier Transform
Infrared (FTIR) technology to be programmed to give a warning of possible
abnormalities in raw milk samples. MilkoScan instruments are already used
around the world to check milk for payment and quality assurance purposes.
Raw milk containing abnormalities is a growing problem. The abnormalities
can be caused by deliberate adulteration, for example, with lard or melamine
or by accidents, for example, if milk from cows and buffalo gets mixed.
Previously, the software functionality was only available for the
MilkoScanFT 120 analyser.
Screening to improve food safety
The ability to program analysers used in routine testing operations
allows users to adopt a screening approach to incoming raw milk samples.
The programmed analyser does not identify specific contaminants, but
helps to identify a suspect raw milk sample quickly and as a normal part of
everyday testing. The suspect sample can then be further analysed to
determine the contaminant.
The system works by monitoring the results of analysis performed using
infrared spectroscopy. Looking at raw milk from a spectroscopic point of
view, natural raw milk has a particular spectrum - a unique fingerprint. It
is possible to program an infrared spectroscopy analyser to recognise the
spectra (or fingerprint) representing normal milk. A warning is then given
when samples do not match the fingerprint.
FOSS dairy market manager, Dorthe Bisgaard said: "The approach is a
powerful tool for tackling milk adulteration, whether this occurs by accident
or on purpose. With this screening option, quality assurance people can
quickly check for many different types of adulteration and with no extra time
or cost per routine test."
More information:
http://www.foss.dk/abnormality-screening
http://www.foss.dk/NewsAndEvents.aspx
SOURCE FOSS
