Overview 

Researchers from NIT Rourkela and the University of the Philippines Los Baños have developed an IoT-enabled smart colourimeter to monitor ingredient quality in processed foods. This device enables real-time tracking of colour and temperature variations, making it particularly valuable for analyzing oleogels and fat alternatives in the food industry.

How the Smart Colourimeter Works

Equipped with advanced IoT capabilities, the device offers:

• Remote monitoring of food samples for quality control.
• Automated data logging for continuous quality assessment.
• Real-time detection of minute changes in food colour and temperature.

Transforming Food Processing with Oleogel Monitoring

Processed foods often rely on solid fats to enhance texture and stability. However, these fats contain harmful trans and saturated fats, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases and obesity. To combat this, the industry is shifting towards oleogels, which transform liquid oils into gel-like solids using plant-based polymers, waxes, or other additives.

Despite their health benefits, oleogels face stability issues such as oil migration, which compromises food quality. The IoT-enabled colourimeter accurately detects these instabilities, ensuring consistent food safety and quality in processed foods.

Source: Foodtech Network