Stable Micro Systems enhances texture analysis

The new system automated the testing process, increasing productivity, eliminating operator errors and improving operator safety, the company claimed.

It added that it would be suitable for analysing products in categories ranging from dairy; bakery; confectionery; fruit and vegetables; supplements; and tablets.

The ALIS enables the loading of multiple test samples prior to testing and does not require constant supervision by the user during testing.

Effectively integrated​

It can be effectively integrated with Stable Micro Systems’ TA.XTplus​ texture analyser, which the food industry already widely respects, according to the firm.

The ALIS can be set up quickly and easily and sample mounting is fast. It can accommodate and evaluate samples even if they are not spaced regularly.

Stable Micro Systems’ software, Texture Exponent, provides a simple interface for entering set-up parameters and analysing results.

‘Batch testing window’​

It now also boasts a ‘batch testing window’, which facilitates a multiple testing protocol that moves the platform in either direction in short or longer distances. This enables multiple tests of each sample.

The ALIS is available in two platform lengths – 250mm and 600mm. The platform can either be moved and paused for the testing of each sample, or can be moved constantly at the same speed as the texture analyser’s arm, which is ideal for peel testing, for instance.

“The ALIS is the result of extensive product development work,”​ said Jo Smewing, applications manager at Stable Micro Systems. “High volume, repetitive testing is a common requirement of many food laboratories today but it can be time-consuming and can cause bottlenecks.​

Improving efficiency​

“Using the ALIS to automate texture analysis not only accelerates the process itself and makes it more accurate, but also frees up the operator’s time to focus on more sophisticated tasks. Improving efficiency like this can have a direct impact on a company’s bottom line, which will be welcome news for many food manufacturers.”​

Stable Micro Systems plans to display the new ALIS services at the Health Ingredients Europe 2012 trade show at Frankfurt, Germany, from November 13-15.