Continuous Moisture Measurement of Mashed Potatoes for Optimizing the Dosing of other Ingredients in the Production Line

 

 

Abstract

This application note describes the implementation of the Polispec Lite contactless system for moisture measurement on a mashed potato production line. Installed in a non-contact mode above the conveyor belt transporting mashed potatoes to the mixing tanks, the system allows for continuous moisture control to optimize the dosing of other ingredients, enhancing the taste and texture of the final product.

 

 

 

Introduction

In industrial mashed potato production, controlling the moisture content of cooked and mashed potatoes is essential for ensuring the consistency and flavor of the finished product. Potato moisture levels can vary based on several factors, such as the cooking method and the quality of the raw materials. To improve efficiency, reduce ingredient waste, and ensure a high-quality standard in the final product, it’s crucial to monitor moisture in real-time and adjust the dosages of other ingredients accordingly.

The Polispec Lite contactless system was selected to measure the moisture content of mashed potatoes as they move along a conveyor belt feeding the mixing tanks. This non-contact, continuous monitoring solution is ideal for a high-speed production environment that adheres to strict hygiene standards.

 

Objectives

The objective of this application is to:

• Measure the moisture content of mashed potatoes in real-time.
• Provide accurate data for precise dosing of other ingredients.
• Minimize variations in mashed potato quality and optimize production efficiency.

 

 

 

Methodology

After being peeled, diced, and cooked, the potatoes are mashed and transported via a conveyor belt to mixing tanks where other ingredients, such as milk, butter, salt, and spices, are added. The Polispec Lite system is positioned above the conveyor belt to continuously measure the moisture content of the mashed potatoes without direct contact.

This measurement method is particularly useful for analyzing a sticky and uneven mass in motion, which would otherwise be challenging with direct-contact instruments, while also meeting strict food safety and hygiene standards.

 

 

 

 

Process Steps

1. Raw Material Preparation: The potatoes are cooked, peeled, and diced.
2. Mashing: The prepared potatoes are weighed and mashed.
3. Transport: Mashed potatoes are conveyed toward the mixing tanks.
4. Moisture Measurement: The Polispec Lite system performs continuous, non-contact moisture measurements over the conveyor belt, ensuring accurate and ongoing moisture determination for each production batch.
5. Ingredient Dosing: Based on the average moisture content of the potatoes in the mixer, additional ingredients are adjusted accordingly.
6. Final Product: The mixed product is portioned, packaged, and labeled for sale as a fresh, ready-to-use product.

 

Results and Discussion

Measurements performed by the Polispec Lite system allowed the company to:

• Obtain a precise, real-time moisture profile for each production batch of mashed potatoes.
• Optimize the dosing of additional ingredients based on detected moisture content.
• Minimize consistency and flavor variability in the mashed potatoes, thereby improving the final product’s quality.

The integration of the system enhanced the production process and improved the homogeneity of the final product, increasing operational efficiency on the production line and eliminating lengthy, labor-intensive sampling activities.

 

Conclusions

The Polispec Lite contactless system has proven to be a highly effective solution for continuous moisture monitoring in mashed potato production. Its ability to operate without direct contact and provide real-time data makes it especially suitable for integration into the food industry, particularly in environments where hygiene standards prevent direct contact between the measurement system and the product. Additionally, optimizing ingredient dosing during food preparation ensures a consistently high-quality product, thereby enhancing product shelf life and customer satisfaction.

_____________________________________________________

Looking for a similar solution? Click HERE.