JBT: X-ray inspection offers ‘significant’ advantages over metal detectors

The firm said X-ray inspection systems offer ‘significant’ food safety advantages over traditional metal detectors.

Novus X-ray technology will be integrated into JBT's Protein and Liquid Foods system business. 

X-rays can identify metallic and non-metallic food contaminants such as stainless steel – the most common metal used in food processing equipment, and a more difficult material for traditional metal detectors. 

It also spots objects such as bones, stones, glass and even sugar conglomerates.

JBT FoodTech said the Novus X-ray system combines ease of use and low maintenance – similar to end-of-line metal detection – with the detection capability of X-ray.  

Steve Smith, executive vice president and president of JBT FoodTech, said customers want a contamination detection system that helps ensure food safety.

"In conversations with industry-leading food companies, Novus' technology stood out as having an attractive combination of detection capability, ease of software use and reliability."   ​

JBT Corporation employs 4,200 people worldwide and operates sales, service, manufacturing and sourcing operations in more than 25 countries.

JBT and Baader Group​

The news follows JBT Corporation and Nordischer Maschinenbau Rud. Baader GmbH + Co. (The Baader Group) announcing a cooperation agreement in November last year. 

The technology sharing agreement will create offerings for fish and poultry processors, combining JBT's waterjet technology with The Baader Group's poultry processing, fish processing and X-ray technology.

The North American poultry market will have access to a complete product handling, portioning, and weighing system to expand throughput and reduce labor costs.