From June 2012 newsletter
Food particle shape and size analysis
Particle shape and size can have a significant impact on many aspects of food, influencing processability and ingredient functionality as well as product taste, appearance and stability. Let us help you understand, and then control, your product and ingredients.
New particle size analyser
We have a new particle size analyser that can measure the size distribution of particles from two microns up to three centimetres. Mervin Poole explains:
"Knowledge of how the shape and size of ingredients affect
products could enable manufacturers to significantly improve
processing efficiency and effectiveness, and product quality.
Because of the unique way in which the instrument operates
we can analyse the overall shape of particles, not just their
apparent shape in one particular orientation, allowing
statistically reliable data to be obtained. We can also analyse
wet as well as dry products.
Amongst the products we have already looked at are salt,
sugar and coffee granules, confectionery decorations, and
composite instant drink powders - in which three different
ingredients are mixed together. The ability to characterise
particle shape and size so precisely, in ways not previously
available, opens up opportunities not just for monitoring and
controlling the quality of the ingredients themselves, but also to
investigate which particular factors are significant. Importantly,
post-testing analysis of the data can be carried out."
This latest acquisition complements our long-standing expertise in image analysis and related techniques, including liquid particle size analysis in our Brewing Division.
Contact: Mervin Poole
+44(0)1386 842287
mervin.poole@campdenbri.co.uk