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Campden Hungary, Maspex, and KSM Vision are collaboratively undertaking an R&D project focused on the automation and digitization of label quality inspection. The aim is to minimize production waste resulting from errors on labels in the food industry. This initiative contributes to the green transformation of the food industry by supporting zero waste policies and optimizing resource utilization.

As part of the project, a label quality inspection system will be developed specifically for the food industry. Existing market solutions often require manual handling, particularly in terms of calibration and parameterization for new formats and products. The proposed solution seeks to provide a 100% automated product inspection on production lines for two product categories – jars and pouch packaging – while simplifying the quality control procedure.

Creating such a solution entails overcoming several technological challenges, including the development of a centralized system for managing quality control systems in the factory, the creation of procedures for automatic calibration and parameterization of systems for new formats and products, and standardization of the database, algorithms, and data processing models for different product groups.

The new system will leverage auto-calibration and parameterization algorithms for quality control. Utilizing image processing functions and template matching will allow for the analysis of the 2D representation of the label and the shape of the controlled food product. The system will enable the introduction of new formats and labels, the setting of appropriate regions of interest (ROIs), such as batch codes and EAN, and the automatic transformation of settings to physical 3D products.

Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT) conducted on Maspex production lines will cover 50 products. The developed digital technology will enhance transparency, traceability, and integrity in the food industry. By preventing errors in food packaging, the project contributes to the system’s resilience, reduces costly recalls, and maintains consumer trust. It also addresses the need to improve food safety and compliance with regulations through automated and standardized quality control processes, significantly impacting sustainable development.

The project aligns with the mission of the EIT Food organization to create a food system with net-zero value through the automation of quality control processes, waste reduction, and resource optimization.

Campden BRI Food and Drink Innovation oversee the communication and promotion of the project. The organization brings together over 2500 member companies in 80 countries, closely collaborating with the industry to provide a wide range of analytical, testing, and operational support for research and innovation programs in food production.

The entire project is under the auspices of the leading European organization dedicated to innovation in the food industry, EIT Food, supported by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT).