Near-infrared probe as a quality control tool for milk powder blending processes

<p>This study aims to evaluate the suitability and reliability of Process Analytical Tools (PAT) in monitoring milk powder blending processes. The uniformity end point was predicted using a Near-Infrared (NIR) probe, and subsequently validated using offline Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). A standard milk formulation (SMF) made up of 50% lactose, 40% skim milk powder, and 10% whey protein concentrate was used. Additionally, the detection limit of the NIR probe was investigated using vitamin C powder. The average predicted uniformity end point using the inline NIR fixed reference (63.89 ± 2.06 min), and dynamic reference conformity test (63.00 ± 5.25 min) were comparable with the offline FTIR measurement (56.6 ± 0.71 min). A three-component Partial Least Square Regression (PLSR) model was constructed and validated for vitamin C. The detection limit is 0.11%, which is higher than the vitamin C level commonly found in most infant milk formula (0.035%).</p>