Detection of bones in tuna cans with Varpe X-ray technology

Challenge: Guaranteeing food quality and safety in tuna canning production

The Spanish canning sector, a global leader in the production of seafood, faces one of the biggest challenges in its production process: detecting bones or other foreign objects inside tuna cans before distribution.

A leading company in the canning sector, specializing in the production of high-end canned tuna, was looking for a solution that would guarantee maximum quality and food safety, while maintaining the speed and efficiency of its production line.

Control through traditional detection systems proved insufficient, as small bones or those located in certain parts of the can were not consistently detectable. The company needed an advanced and automated solution capable of inspecting each can with millimetric precision and in real time.

Solution: Implementation of the Varpe X-ray inspection system for bone detection

After a detailed technical analysis, the Varpe Control de Peso team proposed the implementation of an X-ray inspection system specifically designed for high-demand food production environments.

The system allows the analysis of the internal content of tuna cans, detecting bones, hard fragments, or foreign objects of different densities without affecting the production rate.

Thanks to its advanced image analysis and adaptive calibration software, the system offers:

  • Detection of bones, bone remains, and metallic or calcareous fragments.
  • Identification of physical contaminants even in dense or compact products.
  • Automatic recording of images and traceability reports per batch.
  • Direct integration with line control and quality management systems (ERP/MES).

In addition, Varpe’s X-ray technology complies with European food safety regulations, guaranteeing a reliable, hygienic, and fully automated inspection environment.

Results: Total control, reduction of incidents, and improvement of final product quality

The implementation of the Varpe X-ray system in the canned tuna production line allowed the client to achieve highly satisfactory results from the first weeks:

  • Total elimination of bones and foreign objects not previously detected.
  • Inspection of 100% of the cans in real time without slowing down production.
  • Statistical control and complete traceability of each inspected batch.
  • 15% increase in the overall efficiency (OEE) of the line.
  • Improved consumer confidence and reduction of claims.

The system not only improved the safety and quality of the final product, but also reinforced the manufacturer’s brand image, by offering an additional guarantee of food safety in an increasingly demanding market.

Conclusion: Varpe, innovation in inspection for the canning industry

The implementation of the Varpe X-ray system demonstrated how advanced inspection technology can be adapted to the particularities of the sector conservero, offering a precise, reliable, and cost-effective solution for the detection of bones in tuna cans.

This case reflects the commitment of Varpe Control de Peso to innovation, food safety, and industrial efficiency, consolidating its position as a referente tecnológico en inspección y control de calidad para la industria de las conservas.

Do you want to optimize quality control in your canning line? Discover how Varpe’s X-ray technology can detect any foreign object with total precision.

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