There is an ever growing need to ensure the quality of food and assess
specific quality parameters in all the links of the food chain, ranging from
processing, distribution and retail to preparing food. Various imaging and
sensing technologies, including X-ray imaging, ultrasound, and near infrared
reflectance spectroscopy have been applied to the problem. Cost and other
constraints restrict the application of some of these technologies. In this
study we test a novel Multiplexing Electric Field Sensor (MEFS), an approach
that allows for a completely non-invasive and non-destructive testing approach.
Our experiments demonstrate the reliable detection of certain foreign objects
and provide evidence that this sensor technology has the capability of
measuring fat content in minced meat. Given the fact that this technology can
already be deployed at very low cost, low maintenance and in various different
form factors, we conclude that this type of MEFS is an extremely promising
technology for addressing specific food quality issues
