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Smart label sensor gives Superior results

Bacteria-triggered smart label ensures freshness for Superior Farms MAP meats.

Pw 7820 Web Superior

U.S. lamb processor Superior Farms, Davis, CA, is in the final stages of testing a first-of-its kind label designed to detect spoilage in uncooked meat and poultry products after packaging by the meat packer, distributor, or grocer. The SensorQ™ smart label was rolled out nationally by Food Quality Sensor Intl., Inc. (FQSI) at October’s Worldwide Food Expo in Chicago. At the event, FQSI president and CEO Marco Bonné told Packaging World, “There is nothing like this label in the world.”

Dave Lipsett, technology development manager for Superior Farms, says that the SensorQ label aligns with the company’s commitment to high-quality meat products. “Our customers depend on us for safe, wholesome, high-quality food products,” he says, “and we pride ourselves on finding innovative ways to stay on the forefront of technology.”

For Superior's MAP products

Superior Farms offers veal and lamb under its own name, and lamb imported from Australia under the Country Meadow brand name, to retailers and restaurants across the United States. It also packs case-ready beef and pork, and value-added products, including stuffed pork chops, premade kabobs and kabob kits, and beef pinwheels. The processor employs vacuum packaging for its primals and subprimals, and modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) through both master-bag and barrier-tray programs.

The SensorQ label will be used on the company’s MAP products, relates Dr. Melissa VanLaningham, Superior Farms’ director of food science. “Once this new label is on packaging, shoppers will be able to determine freshness in the store and after taking the product home, eliminate the guesswork,” she says. “We want them to know that their safety is important to us.”

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