X-ray assurance

Standing up to be counted, Paradise Tomato Kitchens, supplier of tomato-based sauces for several of the country's leading restaurant chains including six of the top 15 pizza chains, is reportedly the first in its field to employ an x-ray system that detects harmful particles that may have entered products during the manufacturing process.

Paradise purchased the x-ray machine—the Eagle Case Model made by Smiths Heimann based in Alcoa, TN—in order to implement cutting-edge precautionary and preventative measures. The cabinet x-ray machine—which generates radiation well within FDA guidelines for personnel as well as food safety and is similar to those used in airports—is automatic and unmanned.

The system can detect metal, but its significantly more sensitive technology permits it to find glass, stones and other particles that may have contaminated product. Paradise packages sauce and salsa in flexible plastic pouches; after being packed for shipping, but prior to loading, these pouches are now being scanned.

According to Michael Ahern, managing director of Smiths Heimann, a growing number of food packers are currently using the technology but have sworn him to secrecy. "It's a very sensitive issue—no one wants to admit they have, or might have, contaminants," he explains.

Exerting influence: "In the past three to five years, foodservice has become one of the highest areas of growth for this technology. We x-ray pouches of foodservice mashed potatoes, bulk peanuts, baked beans, snacks, frozen foods, entrees packed on metal trays, etc. An educated buyer helps get a better product and the mega-retailers, such as Cosco and Wal-Mart, are exerting a lot of influence on product quality. They're saying, 'If you want my business, you have to have a metal detector or x-rays on the production line,'" Ahern asserts.

At Louisville, KY–based Paradise, ceo Ron Peters is proud to take a public stand. "We've always been committed to the safety and security of our sauces and this technology gives us the means to take that commitment to a higher level while also raising the bar for all food industry suppliers," Peters says.

And, as Ahern suggests, an educated buyer—that's you—can exert great influence on product quality by demanding it from your suppliers.