DataTrace data loggers are commonly used in retort sterilization of food processing. Retorts sterilize food after it is sealed in a container by steam or other heating methods. Typically, the sterilization temperatures vary from 230°F/110°C to 275°F/135°C.

Retort sterilization provides safe, effective shelf stability and can be done with fairly simple equipment. Newer agitation retort processes have reduced cook times, resulting in energy savings and less degradation of the food quality. Improvements in retort technology have increased the need to monitor the temperature in the retort sterilizer as well as the product itself.  Monitoring temperature ensures food safety, saves energy, reduces production time and assists in providing the best quality product.

The use of traditional can packaging still continues, but plastics in pouches and trays have become much more prevalent. Mesa Labs offers accessories to assist in the placement of the logger inside the can, pouch or bottle. If an off-the-shelf item will not work for a particular application, Mesa can design and manufacture a logger holder to allow placement in the center of your packaged product.

To achieve real-time monitoring in a retort sterilizer, Mesa Labs has developed its MPRF line of DataTrace Radio Frequency Data Loggers that are available in various probe lengths from 2”/5 cm to 25”/63.5 cm. DataTrace MPRF data loggers are also available with ridged and bendable probes and multiple tips to accommodate the needs and requirements of the items being monitored.

Mesa Labs also offers a DataTrace Network Repeater. The Repeater takes weak signal from within a retort and repeats the signal to an MPRF PC Interface. If the signal is weak coming out of the retort, an alternative is to use the 10’ InTenna. This product was recently introduced by Mesa Labs, and utilizes one of the retort sterilizer’s service outlets to dramatically increase the deliverability of the RF signal and ensure real-time data transfer.

When looking for a knowledgeable partner for your retort sterilization monitoring needs, contact your Lianhui representative (SD_lianhui@163..com) for expert consultation and product evaluation.