Articles
Making NIR Technology Work for Food Processing: What to Know Before You Dive In
arrow_backTo the overview03 August 2026 | Perten, a PerkinElmer company
For decades, food processors have had mixed feelings about lab testing equipment. On one hand, there’s excitement—data to monitor processes, assess raw materials, and ensure consistency. On the other, there’s hesitation—new tools and methods that feel outside core competencies. To help bridge that gap, instrument manufacturers developed fast, easy-to-use near-infrared spectroscopy (NIR) solutions built on proven analytical methods, but without the need for a chemistry degree or a full lab team to run them.
As the adoption of NIR grew, so too did the options available to food processors for how to implement this technology into their operations. In addition to the in-lab or at-line benchtop versions of the instruments, opportunities arose for food processors to supplement in-lab testing with real-time testing on the processing line. In this article, we will review how NIR technology can be utilized in food processing operations, as well as offer suggestions for food processors to consider when adopting NIR.
This article is written by:
Perten, a PerkinElmer company
Perten, a PerkinElmer company, is a global leader in analytical instruments and quality control solutions for the food and agricultural industries. With a rich heritage rooted in innovation, we empower producers to optimize their processes, ensure product consistency, and meet the highest standards of safety and quality. From grain and flour testing to dairy and processed food analysis, our cutting-edge technologies provide accurate, real-time insights that drive efficiency and reduce waste across the entire food supply chain.
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