Machinery firm launches meat fat analyser

The Norwegian firm launched its new FatScan machine at the Interpack 2017 trade show, which opened its doors on 4 May in the German city of Düsseldorf.

According to the company, FatScan allows meat processors to precisely measures chemical lean content – the amount of lean meat compared to fat – and improves profitability through optimised use of raw materials.

Thorsten Niermeyer, business unit manager of process analytics at Tomra’s Sorting Food division, said the machine was developed with small- to medium firms in mind.

‘Excellent tool’​

“In the past, small and mid-sized meat processors were unable to invest in in-line fat analysis,​” he said.

“Off-line analysis required additional time and labour, while being vulnerable to sampling errors and therefore proved to not always be a feasible option.​

“The Tomra FatScan allows small and mid-sized processors to utilise in-line fat analysis to control their process, products and suppliers. Precise measurement of fat content by the Tomra FatScan is an excellent tool for quality improvement and a reduction in costs and time for these processors.​”

FatScan uses Tomra’s patented spectroscopy, which utilises an infrared light to penetrate deep into the meat. It can analyse fat content in meat trimmings, minced or diced meat for beef and pork.

Tomra​ claims the system has reduced energy consumption compared to other machines, among its advantages.

“Tomra’s FatScan offers many other great advantages such as improved productivity, complete traceability, consistent product quality, fewer human errors and smarter purchasing of raw materials,​” added Niermeyer.

Visitors to Interpack can see the new FatScan machine at Booth F01 in Hall 5.