IDM | QC/Hygiene Table and Graph 3b. 0.35mm plastic (PBT) metal detectable bristle strength and elongation. Functionality of metal detectable plastic bristles The ability of metal detectable bristled brushware to clean a surface of a wet (tinned chopped tomatoes) and a dry (mix of milk powder and ground coffee) 32 · 9 2016 | international-dairy.com food soil, was compared with that of a standard plastic bristled brush, using a robotic cleaning rig (Vikan, Denmark), as shown in Figure 3. Results Conclusion Based on visual assessment, the metal detectable plastic bristled brush was no more effective at cleaning than the standard plastic bristled brush, as illustrated in Figures 4a & 4b. Discussion Based on the findings of these investigations it seems unlikely that metal detectable plastic bristles would be detectable in a food product, especially given previously mentioned detector and product accumulative variances, and that the plastic fragments are likely to be small. To detect these small fragments the metal detector sensitivity would need to be set so high that most products would be rejected. The use of metal detectable plastic bristled brushes may in fact increase the risk of bristle contamination of food, due to their reduced strength and elasticity, and a perception that any metal detectable bristles will be controlled via the metal detector. Additionally, metal detectable plastic bristled brushware offers no advantage over plastic bristled brushes with regard to cleaning efficacy. Currently only relatively thick metal detectable plastic bristles are available, i.e., >0.35mm diameter. However, fine bristled brushes are more effective at removing fine powders, including some allergens. Consequently, the use of thicker bristled brushes may result in poor cleaning efficacy and therefore, increase the risk to the business/consumer. As an alternative to the use of metal detectable plastic bristled brushware, it is suggested that brushes are regularly inspected and replaced, in order to minimise the risk of foreign body contamination from this source, and that brushes of a contrasting colour to the food product be used to enable the plastic bristles to be seen more easily in the product. Additionally, the use of a brush that minimises bristle loss through good construction, is advisable. Visit http:\\www.vikan.com. References Lock, A., 1990. The Guide To Reducing Metal Contamination In The Food Processing Industry. Safeline Metal Detection Ltd. Figure 4a. Cleaning with metal detectable plastic bristled brush. Figure 4b. Cleaning with a plastic bristled brush. Acknowledgments Vikan would like to thank Mettler Toledo and Zwick Roell for their collaboration during this study.
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