Sensor detects broken food

Finnish scientists have developed a small sensor that quickly detects broken food.

Detect broken food by sensor

The sensor is small enough to fit on a food packaging and its signal can be read by mobile devices such as smartphones . According to UPI, the sensor works by detecting ethanol, a chemical byproduct that damages food. Experiments have shown that ethanol and carbon dioxide are the two most destructive molecules produced from fruits.

The sensor (small circle in the direction of the white arrow), mounted on the container to detect broken food. Photo: VTT Technical Research Center of Finland

Sensor detection is connected via a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag. Text messages are recorded with a smartphone reader. It also identifies by changing colors.

"Sensors and RFID tags can be made into labels that are attached to a bag or food box, by applying printing technology ," said a team of VTT Research Center.

New technology can ensure the safety of customers, while helping manufacturers improve the quality control process and keep the product fresh, limited waste disposal. Scientists are looking for partners to commercialize this invention in the future.