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Safeguarding consumers with accurate labelling

30 October 2023

Neil Gruettner explores the importance of accurate labelling and explains some key regulations and milestones as well as examining the consequences of incorrect labelling.

To protect consumer safety and allow for informed choices, regulations such as Natasha's Law and labelling guidelines are in place. 

Natasha's Law mandates that all food businesses in the UK provide clear and accurate allergen information on prepacked for direct sale (PPDS) food. This law aims to protect individuals with food allergies and empower them to make informed decisions, avoiding potentially life-threatening situations. 

Manufacturers trading within the EU have to comply with the EU Food Information for Consumers Regulations (No 1169/2011). The Regulation specifies mandatory obligations for all Food Business Operators (FBOs) that they must declare the presence – whether used as an ingredient or a processing aid – of any of the 14 major allergens. 

Alongside existing regulations, throughout history, there have been significant milestones that have shaped labelling practices. From the introduction of the Pure Food and Drug Act in the US in 1906 to the establishment of the Nutrition Facts panel in 1994, these milestones represent ongoing efforts to enhance consumer protection and promote informed decision-making. Each step forward signifies a commitment to the safety and integrity of the food we consume.

Incorrect labelling
To address the challenge of labelling accuracy, vision inspection systems and automation have emerged as game-changers in the food industry. These systems provide 100% label inspection throughout the production line. Equipped with smart cameras and advanced technologies, vision inspection systems capture and analyse label content, including allergen listings, expiry dates, barcodes and branding. 

The automation capabilities of vision inspection systems are impressive, surpassing manual checks in terms of speed and efficiency. They accelerate production, streamlining product changeovers by storing multiple label or product variations for inspection that can easily be switched over within the software, minimising labour-intensive manual processes,  thus offering a cost-effective solution that boosts productivity and advances accuracy.

Vision inspection systems also provide comprehensive inspection coverage, examining labels from all angles, even on irregularly shaped products. They detect misaligned labels, smudged prints and other discrepancies that could compromise product integrity or regulatory compliance. By leaving no detail unchecked, these systems instil confidence in manufacturers' labelling processes and product quality for enhanced brand protection.

Boosting productivity
In addition to enhancing accuracy, vision inspection systems reduce the risk of product recalls, protecting both consumers and brands. By supporting compliance with regulatory requirements and providing accurate information on every pack and label, these systems serve as a strong defence against labelling errors. They contribute to increased uptime on production lines by minimising stoppages and reducing manual intervention, resulting in smoother operations and higher productivity.

Vision inspection systems also offer the flexibility to be combined with other inspection technologies, such as checkweighers, which can then also be added to x-ray inspection or metal detection technology. These combinations and integration provide space-saving benefits, streamlining workflows and offering comprehensive inspection coverage over multiple production lines.

Vision inspection systems can also support due diligence in the food industry. Manufacturers can monitor the labelling process in real-time, capturing valuable data and supporting compliance with regulations. 

Conclusion
Vision inspection systems are revolutionising the food industry with 100% label inspection and process automation. Unlike traditional manual spot checks, these systems offer unparalleled accuracy and assurance. By installing smart cameras on existing product lines, manufacturers can confidently meet safety standards and evolving regulations. The integration of vision inspection systems with existing equipment and processes also brings cost advantages. By combining consumer safety and cost-effectiveness, vision inspection systems provide a compelling solution that meets the demands of consumers and manufacturers alike and leads to enhanced food safety.

Neil Gruettner is VI Business Development Manager at Mettler-Toledo Product Inspection.


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