It's a gas, but how much?

Headnote

Online gas analyzer helps processor get its MAP packaging right the first time, with no manual checks, wasted time or product loss.

A meat processing company based in Vemmelev, Denmark, KødGrossisten produces a range of high-quality raw cuts and processed products. The plant has a modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) line for producing beef burgers and minced beef in thermo-sealed trays. It processes about 25 tons of product each week.

A modified atmosphere of carbon dioxide (20 percent) and oxygen (80 percent) ensures a prolonged shelf life for the products while maintaining their attractive appearance. The gases are drawn into the packaging chamber under negative pressure.

Quality assurance is a vital part of KødGrossisten's operation, and ensuring the correct gas mixture enters each tray is essential. Until recently, the company used a Dansensor CheckMate 3 headspace analyzer to randomly test...