At E2M COUTH we have a wide range of artificial vision systems perfect for installation on any production line, offering advanced technological solutions at all times for inspection and quality control in different industries. Over the course of this post, we will discuss the process of heat-sealed container inspection, to ensure that the product reaches the consumer properly and in perfect condition.
Heat-sealed container inspection is of vital importance in the food industry to ensure the safety and quality of the products that reach the end consumer. Heat-sealed containers are capable of creating a protective barrier against external contaminants, extending the shelf life of the food and keeping it fresh.
Proper inspection can detect possible defects in the seal, such as leaks, contamination or structural faults, which could compromise food safety and customer satisfaction. Meanwhile, the implementation of automated inspection systems helps companies to comply with strict quality standards and regulations, reducing the risk of product recalls and protecting the brand’s reputation.
What is heat-sealed container inspection?
Heat-sealed container inspection is a verification quality control process in which the heat-sealed containers are analysed to detect possible defects or irregularities that could compromise the integrity and safety of the product they contain. This process may include inspection of seals, detection of leaks, visual inspection and pressure tests, among other methods. Inspection may be performed manually, or preferably by means of automated systems using such advanced technologies as cameras, sensors and x-rays to ensure precise and rapid examination.
Such inspection of heat-sealed trays is very important for the food production chain, for the following reasons:
- Food safety: It ensures that containers are properly sealed, avoiding contamination by external agents which could cause disease.
- Product quality: Guaranteeing that food remains fresh and maintains its organoleptic properties (flavour, texture, aroma), by preventing air and moisture from entering.
- Regulatory compliance: Helping companies comply with international quality standards and regulations, avoiding penalties and product market recalls.
- Brand reputation: Maintaining high quality and safety standards helps to sustain and improve consumer trust in the brand.
At E2M COUTH we offer the Visiotray system, capable of inspecting the heat-seal quality of such containers.
Types of heat-sealed containers in the food industry
Here we set out the different types of container that could undergo this heat-seal process:
Heat-sealed trays
Heat-sealed trays are rigid containers, generally made of plastic or compostable materials, with a thermally sealed cover. Such containers are widely used in the food industry because of capacity to keep the contents fresh and protect them from external contaminants.
Heat-sealed trays are perfect for products such as fresh meat, fish, fruit, vegetable and ready meals. For example, supermarkets often sell chicken and beef in heat-sealed trays, thereby guaranteeing product quality and safety until it reaches the consumer.
Packets of sliced produce
Packets of sliced produce are flexible pouches or bags which are thermally sealed, designed specifically to contain food cut into strips or slices. This type of container is very widely used for cured meat, sliced cheese and other delicatessen products.
Packets of sliced produce offer convenience and ease-of-use for the consumer, providing quick and simple access to the product without compromising its freshness. One common example of this type of container would be sachets of cured ham or sliced cheddar cheese, available in refrigerated store cabinets.
Vacuum packs
Vacuum packs are flexible high-barrier plastic containers which are vacuum-sealed, eliminating the air inside to preserve the foods. This is an effective packaging method for meat, fish, seafood, cheese and boiled or smoked produce.
Eliminating the air prevents the growth of bacteria and extends the food’s shelf life. One typical example would be vacuum-packed salmon fillets, which remain fresh for longer and can be stored in a refrigerator or freezer without losing quality, or otherwise meat and other foods.
Blister packs
Blister packs may be defined as those with a plastic base covered with heat-sealed plastic or aluminium film, typically used for individual portions. This type of pack is common for such products as snacks, dried fruit and nuts, and pharmaceutical products.
Blister packs offer excellent protection against moisture and other contaminants, and are also highly practical for consumers. One example would be packs of dried fruit, which are sold in blister format to keep them fresh.
Skinpacks
Skinpacks are a type of container in which the product is placed on a tray and wrapped in a plastic film which adheres tightly to the product. This method of packaging is perfect for high-quality fresh meat, fish and seafood. Skinpack technology provides an excellent protective barrier and allows attractive visual presentation of the product.
Heat-sealed jars and tubs
Heat-sealed jars and tubs are glass or plastic containers with heat-sealed lids to ensure freshness and avoid contamination. Such containers are typically used for dairy produce such as yoghurts, or for preserves and sauces.
Heat-sealed jars offer excellent protection and can be reused, making them a sustainable option. One typical example would be natural yoghurt sold in glass jars with a heat-sealed lid, guaranteeing product safety and freshness during storage and transportation.
Technologies used in food container inspection
In this section, we discuss the technology or equipment used for heat-sealed container inspection. Inspection of heat-sealed containers by artificial vision uses a variety of advanced equipment and systems, including:
- High-resolution cameras: Essential equipment capturing detailed images of the containers.
- Specialist LED lighting: Providing uniform and consistent lighting to ensure the quality of the images captured.
- Image processing software: Tools using advanced algorithms to analyse the images and detect defects.
- Automatic rejection systems: Mechanisms which automatically eliminate faulty containers from the production line.
- Sensors and scanners: Additional devices that can measure the pressure, vacuum and other critical parameters of the containers.
Main benefits of artificial vision inspection compared with other methods
Here we set out the main benefits offered by artificial vision container inspection:
- Precision and consistency: Artificial vision allows highly precise and consistent inspection, reducing the possibility of human error.
- Speed and efficiency: Artificial vision systems allow containers to be inspected at high speed, enabling continuous production without significant interruption.
- Detection of multiple defects: These systems can identify a wide range of defects simultaneously, from problems with the seal, to contamination or deformation.
- Reduced cost: Automated inspection minimises the costs associated with inspection staff, and reduces wastage caused by faulty products.
- Records and traceability: Artificial vision systems are capable of storing data and images from each container inspected, providing detailed records and complete traceability for audits and quality analyses.
- Adaptability and scalability: Artificial vision systems are highly adaptable to different types of container and can be easily scaled to satisfy growing production needs.
All of which allows proper inspection of heat-sealed containers, to ensure maximum product quality.
Inspection processes at different stages of production
We here indicate the processes which take place within artificial vision container inspection:
Inspection of heat-sealed trays
Inspection of heat-sealed trays is performed to ensure that the seal is hermetic and that the contents are protected against external contaminants. This process includes various stages:
- Seal verification: This is performed by means of high-resolution cameras and sensors. This serves to inspect the integrity of the seal, seeking out defects such as bubbles, folds and areas that are not sealed.
- Contamination control: Artificial vision systems are used to detect the presence of visible contaminants in the sealing zone of the tray.
- Label verification: Checking that all the labels are properly placed and legible, and that the content matches the information provided.
- Leak testing: Some of these systems can perform pressure or vacuum testing, to ensure there is no type of leak in the heat-sealed trays.
By applying this process, we ensure that the heat-sealed trays comply with quality and safety standards, before they arrive at the point of sale.
Inspection of packets of sliced produce
We continue with the inspection of packets of sliced produce, focused on ensuring that the sliced products are properly packaged and that the container maintains product freshness. This process includes the following stages:
- Content control: Checking that the quantity of product in each packet is correct, and that the slices are uniformly positioned.
- Seal integrity: The packet seal is inspected by means of artificial vision systems to detect any defect in the seal that could allow air to enter.
- Contaminant detection: Cameras and sensors are used to identify the presence of foreign bodies or contaminants in the product or in the container.
- Label examination: Ensuring that the labels are properly positioned and have the right information, in legible form.
This process serves to maintain product quality and safety, for example with cured meat and sliced cheese.
Sliced produce line inspection
Sliced produce line inspection is performed during the sliced produce cutting and packaging process. The inspection stages include:
- Cutting control: Ensuring that the slices are of the right thickness and size, by means of sensors and automated measurement systems.
- Product quality verification: Inspected visually and with sensors to ensure there are no defects in the slices, such as tears or irregularities.
- Line cleanliness examination: The production line is continuously monitored to detect and eliminate possible contaminants and ensure that hygiene standards are fulfilled.
- Container inspection: Checking that the packets of sliced produce are properly sealed and free of leaks.
This process will then serve to ensure that the sliced products are of high quality and are safe for consumption.
Inspection of food containers
Inspection of food containers covers a wide range of products, from fresh produce to processed foods. The inspection stages include:
- Container integrity: Artificial vision and sensors are used to inspect the structural integrity of the container, ensuring there are no cracks, holes or deformations.
- Seal and leak tests: The seal quality is inspected and pressure or vacuum tests performed to detect possible leaks.
- Content control: The container contents are checked against the specifications in terms of quantity, quality and arrangement.
- Contaminant detection: X-ray systems or metal detectors are used to identify and eliminate any physical contaminant inside the container.
- Label verification: Ensuring that the labels are precise, correctly positioned and legible.
This is a very important inspection process to ensure that food produce complies with quality and safety standards before it reaches the end consumer.
Need more information about our heat-sealed container inspection solutions? At E2M COUTH we have a wide range of artificial vision systems available. Simply get in touch to receive the best possible advice.
