Multiprobe Jig, Lloyd Instruments

New Fish Texture Multiprobe Jig From Lloyd Instruments

News Release from: Lloyd Instruments
02/07/2008

Lloyd Instruments has introduced a new penetration jig for use with its TAPlus texture analyser. The multiprobe jig simulates the action of a fork to eat fish and provides an alternative approach to probes such as the single cylindrical die and to shearing methods. Applications include the evaluation of the textural properties of fish fillets as a function of different freezing and thawing methods.

Fish and Seafood are an important component of the frozen food market, and the techniques used for freezing and thawing have a significant effect on the texture and appearance of the product at the point of use.

The new jig consists of a square array of 9 stainless steel probes with flat ends mounted on a stainless steel body, which is attached to the load cell of the TAPlus. During testing, the probe is driven into the sample at a fixed speed to a penetration depth of 50% sample thickness. The probe is then stopped and the probe held for a specified period. The penetration force is measured during the test, with the peak penetration force providing a parameter for fish texture evaluation.

Tests can be carried out and data analysed fully automatically by equipping the TAPlus with NEXYGENPlus materials test and control software.

Other jigs available for fish and seafood texture analysis testing include knife edge and ball probes for determining the firmness, consistency and hardness of fish, prawns, crab sticks and other products.