Leak detection in modified atmosphere packs

An inline system for detecting leaks in modified atmosphere packs (MAP), AirScan from Ishida, has improved the quality control procedures and cut labour costs for a new snack product made by German food manufacturer M-Back, part of dairy giant Meggle.

The Ofenschnecke is a small puff pastry product that is available in two versions, filled with a combination of feta cheese and fresh herbs or spinach.

The rolls, which need to be warmed up in the oven before eating, are packed in thermoformed trays, each containing two or three products, with fill weights of 180g and 300g.

When the puff pastries are packed, it is not uncommon for product traces to get into the sealing area of trays.

This can result in leaks, which may cause protective gas to escape and draw in moisture.

AirScan uses laser technology to detect leaks of carbon dioxide, which is used in many MAP applications.

The system checks each tray in less than 20 milliseconds for traces of escaping gas. It can reliably find holes with a diameter as small as 0.25mm, at speeds of up to 180 packs a minute.

Contact Ishida for more information.