MOCON Dansensor LeakProtego MAP leak testing system

MOCON is expanding the availability of its Dansensor LeakProtego leak testing system, which has been developed to help food processors ensure that individual modified atmosphere packages (MAP) do not have undetected micro leaks. The product has been engineered to test for potential leaks at low levels.

Currently, most food processors test for leaks when the product has already been placed into cases or shipping crates. Because MAP leaks degrade shelf life, compromise product safety and negatively impact brand image, MOCON’s goal was to develop an inline system that provides food processors with package integrity information further upstream.

The LeakProtego uses a sensing system with CO₂ as a trace gas to detect leaks down to 50 µm. The technology relies on modular units, each of which can test up to 12 packages per minute. Multiple modules can be combined so that individual package testing can keep up with MAP equipment output. The modules provide processors with critical information such as individual leak size and rate so that production line optimisation can be made quickly.

The system is not sensitive to changes in the plant environment, such as variation in surrounding CO₂. Typical applications include MAP pasta, bread, cheese, sliced meats and ready-to-eat meals.