Accurate moisture analysis is critical in the food processing industry. While rain and moisture are wholly necessary early in the food supply chain, the benefits of moisture often end once raw materials have been harvested and sent for processing. Due to the amount of water found in raw products, processing plants need to employ careful moisture control techniques to prevent mold, mildew, and bacteria from destroying products or endangering consumer safety. Food products used in baking also need to be monitored closely, as moisture levels can negatively affect the outcome of the baked product.
In cases where moisture buildup is unavoidable, food processing plants need to employ some type of drying technique to maintain product integrity. A moisture analyzer from MAC Instruments helps food processing plants determine product moisture levels so they can identify the ideal drying process. Proper moisture analysis saves time and reduces overall food product damage for food manufacturers.
Food Processing and Moisture Monitoring
Moisture analyzers show how much water is currently in a food product and allow bakers and other food producers to adjust those levels accordingly. There are many reasons why food manufacturers should accurately monitor moisture, such as:
- Proper food texture. Texture is an important component of satisfactory food consumption. Too much moisture in certain products can make the end product look or feel wrong, which will deter repeat sales.
- Longer shelf life. High moisture levels significantly impact shelf life of food products. Dried fruits or meats remain edible for long periods if dehydrated properly. Foods that require some moisture to maintain freshness, however, can become stale or hard if too much moisture is removed.
- Easier processing. Product needs to move through the food processing plant at the maximum possible speed. Sticky doughs, moist product, or uneven sizing due to shrinkage/expansion could gum up plant equipment, cause shutdowns, or lengthen the production process.
- Labeling requirements. Some food products, such as certain cheeses, are strictly controlled in terms of moisture content.
- Cooking and baking. High humidity can affect parts of the baking process, such as starch gelatinization, or negatively impact the size and color of the final product.
- Improved plant efficiency. Efficient moisture analysis keeps the food processing plant running at maximum capacity, reduces product waste, decreases energy costs, and increases quality.
Moisture Analyzers from MAC Instruments
Moisture analyzers from MAC Instruments are highly accurate. Users get error-free results every time from our line of industrial moisture analyzers for food processing. Our solutions include:
- MAC 116 Moisture Analyzer: This analyzer is specifically designed for use on continuous conveyor ovens used to cook meat and poultry. Available since 2011, the MAC 116 now operates in cooking installations around the world. It can control the flow of steam into cooking atmospheres, features a built-in purge system, and is ideal for drying and pasteurization processes.
- MAC 125 Moisture Analyzer: The MAC 125 Moisture Analyzer uses no chemicals, optics, mirrors, wet bulb techniques, or compressed air to operate. We rely on our patented proprietary sensor to provide consistent performance and accurate readings, even during highly variable humidity and high-temperature conditions.
Contact MAC Instruments for Your Moisture Monitoring Needs
MAC Instruments has manufactured high-quality moisture monitoring solutions in Sandusky, Ohio since 1990. We offer a full line of industrial moisture analyzers to suit your process needs, no matter the size or scope of your operation. Request a quote or contact us today for more information on moisture analyzers for food processing.
