In November we had a webinar called Digitalizing Food Safety that was hosted by Senzemo. Luka and Blaž gave us a good preview of how IoT can solve multiple issues in the food industry. We also had a guest speaker, our partner Morag Meikle from MFC, who is a food safety expert with decades of experience and he talked about specific benefits that he offers to clients with the help of our sensors.

Overall, we focused on the impact of IoT in the food industry, covering topics like real-time monitoring, data logging, temperature monitoring, and asset tracking.

 

So, how does Digitalizing Food Safety work?

Devices are connected using various communication protocols to the cloud, where special software and data analytics enable us to make smarter decisions. As we enter the era of artificial intelligence, the role of IoT in terms of IoT communication protocols, we have numerous options, each with its own strengths and considerations. The key is to align the protocol with the specific use case and requirements.

LoRaWAN is the ideal choice, It offers long-range communication, low power consumption, and operates on license-free bands, allowing for easy deployment in areas where traditional networks may not reach. Additionally, its unique feature of connecting to the cloud through multiple gateways simultaneously ensures data redundancy and enables duplex communication.

While LoRaWAN may have limitations in throughput due to duty cycle restrictions, we’ve developed two solutions – microclimate sensors for air measurements and probe sensors for temperature monitoring – both compliant with LoRaWAN regulations and designed for longevity with replaceable batteries lasting up to 10 years.

Those familiar with ISO 22000 or HACCP, will know the importance of temperature control in food safety. Senzemo’s sensors, including microclimate and food probes, are wireless and easy to implement, providing real-time data for critical control points. This data is visualized on our platform, allowing for detailed monitoring and historical analysis.

 

As we enter the era of artificial intelligence, the role of IoT in terms of IoT communication protocols, we have numerous options, each with its own strengths and considerations. The key is to align the protocol with the specific use case and requirements.

 

 

IoT in Cook – chill use case

One of our primary use cases involves the Cook-Chill process, where precise temperature monitoring is crucial. Senzemo sensors offer a ‘set and forget’ solution, automatically adjusting send rates to capture cook temperatures and monitor chilling rates, ensuring food safety compliance.

Senzemo IoT solution is unique in its simplicity and effectiveness, offering tailored food safety solutions that are easy to implement and use. Beyond the Cook-Chill process, our sensors are versatile and can be used for various applications in kitchens, including hot boxes, dishwashers, and incoming goods checks.

Senzemo’s IoT solution revolutionizes food safety monitoring, providing a comprehensive and user-friendly solution for businesses in the food industry.

Morag Meikle:

“What this technology enables us to do is enact industrial food safety management, a significant step forward from traditional paper-based systems still prevalent in the industry. While digital forms have improved processes, they still rely on manual verification, which can be prone to errors or falsification.

With sensors, we can automate many processes, shifting from surveillance and verification to continuous monitoring. This automation is particularly beneficial for large-scale operations like restaurant chains or hotel groups, where hundreds of locations need monitoring for compliance with standards like ISO 22000 or SQF.

For our food sensors, we use the hot point and cold point method. Boiling water serves as the hot point, expected to be at 100 degrees Celsius with a one-degree tolerance. Similarly, we use a water slurry as the cold point, aiming for one degree. The sensors consistently perform within point one or point two of a degree, demonstrating their reliability.”

 

 

Morag Meikle from MFC is a food safety expert with decades of experience

 

 

Check out the full version of our Webinar: Digitalizing Food Safety

 

Q&A

 

  • How does the implementation of IoT technology in food safety address challenges specific to different stages of food production, such as processing, storage, and transportation, beyond what was discussed in the article?

Our IoT technology in food safety is designed to address challenges across various stages of food production by offering tailored solutions for processing, storage, and transportation. For example, our sensors provide real-time monitoring of critical control points such as temperature, ensuring that food remains safe throughout its journey from farm to table. Additionally, our system can be customized to monitor other parameters like humidity, ensuring optimal conditions for food quality and safety at every step.

 

  • Can the IoT solution provided by Senzemo integrate with existing food safety management systems or regulatory frameworks, such as FDA regulations in the United States or similar standards in other regions?

Our IoT solution is designed to seamlessly integrate with existing food safety management systems and regulatory frameworks. Whether it’s FDA regulations in the United States, EU food safety standards, or any other regional requirements, our platform can adapt to ensure compliance. We understand the importance of aligning with regulatory standards to ensure the highest level of food safety for our clients and their customers.