Electronic Traceability System for Food Processing Batches
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current food processing systems face challenges in traceability, leading to contamination risks and costly losses due to the mixing of food items from different origins, which results in uncertainty and inefficiencies in tracking and labeling, especially in meat processing.
Innovation Solution
A computer-based system that traces the position and origin of food items throughout processing, storing data on a computer system rather than physical labels, allowing precise tracking and batch formation based on origin, weight, and processing history, enabling accurate identification and separation of items.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If food items from different origins are mixed during processing to improve productivity and reduce logistical complexity, then processing efficiency increases, but traceability and contamination control deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments traceability information by creating individual electronic records for each food item's origin, processing history, and batch assignments. This allows mixed batches to be tracked through their component items rather than requiring physical separation, enabling both mixing for efficiency and traceability for safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an electronic data management system as an intermediary between physical food items and traceability requirements. Instead of relying on physical labels or separation, the system uses electronic records to mediate traceability, allowing food items to be mixed physically while maintaining digital tracking of each item's origin and processing history.
2Reliability
If manual tagging and labeling of food items is used to maintain traceability, then origin information can be tracked, but the process becomes time-consuming and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual mechanical tagging and labeling operations with an electronic data management system. Sensors, RFID tags, or barcode scanners automatically capture and store origin information in electronic records, eliminating the need for manual label application and reducing both time consumption and human error.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of physically attaching labels to each food item, the system creates electronic copies of origin and processing information in a database. These digital records serve as the traceability mechanism, allowing rapid access and updating without physical manipulation of the food items themselves.
3Productivity
If large batches are used to improve productivity, then processing efficiency increases, but the impact of contamination spreads to larger quantities of food
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments batch information into individual item records, allowing the batch to be processed together while maintaining the ability to identify and isolate specific contaminated items. This enables precise recall of only affected items rather than entire batches, reducing food waste while maintaining safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic traceability system provides real-time feedback on the origin and processing history of each item within a batch. This feedback mechanism enables rapid identification of contamination sources and affected items, allowing for targeted responses that minimize food waste while ensuring safety compliance.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an apparatus for processing food wherein food items are conveyed through processing stations where they are cut into pieces and optionally mixed with items originating differently. In particular, the invention relates to a system wherein information related to each food item and the positions of the food items throughout the processing are traced so that the origination of a food item is preserved.