Safeguarding dairy production with Bioglo
Maintaining hygiene and process control is fundamental in dairy manufacturing, where even small contamination risks can affect product quality and safety. Yet identifying the early stages of microbial buildup inside processing equipment remains one of the more difficult challenges for plant operators.
Richard Hanna, general manager at AWS Group, says contamination often develops in areas that are not easily inspected using traditional methods.
“In dairy systems, seals, gaskets, joints and fittings create complex surfaces where biofilms can begin forming long before they are visible to the eye,” Hanna says. “By the time contamination becomes obvious, it may already have progressed further through the processing chain.”
Many commonly used inspection techniques have limitations. Visual checks cannot reveal microbial growth on stainless steel or elastomer surfaces, while swab testing only captures a small sample area and can miss contamination hidden within creases or tight spaces. Laboratory testing remains accurate but is inherently slow, often returning results only after production has continued.
“Operators need faster feedback directly at the point where contamination can form. Waiting for laboratory confirmation can mean valuable time is lost.”
Bioglo has been developed to address this challenge by providing real-time visibility of contamination using multi-wavelength UV fluorescence technology. The handheld lamp is designed to reveal microbial contamination and biofilm formation instantly, highlighting residues and buildup that would otherwise remain invisible.
“The technology allows teams to identify issues immediately rather than relying on delayed testing or chemical indicators. It makes hidden contamination visible so that corrective action can be taken straight away.”
Bioglo is designed for use in demanding processing environments and incorporates features aimed at making inspections practical during normal plant operations. The unit includes high and medium beam modes to allow effective inspection in both brightly lit production areas and shadowed equipment housings.
A reference card helps operators maintain a consistent inspection distance to ensure reliable detection during routine hygiene checks. The unit also provides up to six hours of continuous operation, enabling inspections to be carried out across an entire production shift.
The device is built with a rugged, USB-rechargeable housing rated to IP65 standards, allowing it to withstand washdowns, moisture and the general wear associated with food production environments.
According to Hanna, the goal is to help dairy processors move toward a more proactive approach to hygiene management.
“Instead of waiting for contamination to be detected through routine testing, Bioglo allows operators to identify potential problems at the source,” he says. “In an industry where product integrity and consumer trust are paramount, having the ability to see what would otherwise remain hidden can make a significant difference.”
Sponsored content: For more information phone +64 9 622 4601, email info@awsgroup.co.nz or visit www.awsgroup.co.nz.
