Grateful for Quality Force Measurement from Farm to Table

At Interface, we see Thanksgiving as a time of gathering, gratitude, and celebration with great food. But behind the scenes of this traditional American holiday are countless uses of science and technology that make the magic happen. Of course, we know that force measurement is a happy contributor to the festivities.

Force measurement tools and techniques are important in preparing the perfectly plump turkey (or insert favorite main course) and ensuring quality food, packaging, and preparation equipment. Let’s explore how sensor technology is integral to a thankful and giving day.

#1 Turkey Weighing

The turkey is often the centerpiece of the holiday meal. Whether preparing a small bird for a cozy family dinner or a 25-plus pounder to feed a crowd, accurate weighing ensures you get the right size. Scales using load cell technologies are designed for high precision to ensure that the turkey’s weight matches its advertised label. In addition, turkeys on a farm are often weighed to ensure the perfect plumpness. These sensor-enabled tools help consumers choose a bird that fits their oven, budget, and guest list.

Here’s one real-world example of farmers using Interface force measurement solutions to weigh their prime-time poultry. We were contacted by engineers searching for a weighing system to help them determine a specific weight for the customer’s fowl. They needed an agriculture weighing system to ensure accurate measurements to keep their birds at their ideal weight so they could sell to supermarkets with trusted confidence. They also needed a system that could withstand harsh conditions and unusual temperatures. The SPI Low Capacity Platform Scale Load Cell can undergo strained temperatures and produce highly accurate results. A plate was put on top of the SPI, and the poultry was weighed on top of the plate. Data results are displayed on the 480 Bidirectional Digital Weight Indicator.

#2 Food Sorting

Thanksgiving meals often contain a bounty of fruits and vegetables, including potatoes, squash, cranberries, and greens. Force measurement technology is widely used in food sorting machines to grade produce based on size, weight, and firmness. These systems ensure only the best ingredients make it to your table. For example, apples destined for pies are sorted to ensure uniform size and ripeness, making for a perfectly balanced dessert. As noted in Interface Sensors Optimize Food Canning and Production, our load cells are also commonly found in food production facilities.

#3 Pie Crust Perfection

A flaky pie crust is essential for any pie, whether it’s pumpkin, pecan, or apple. Force measurement is used in food manufacturing to test the consistency and elasticity of dough. By applying precise pressure, manufacturers can ensure the dough is neither tough nor soft, guaranteeing a satisfying bite every time. A baker’s delight is a perfect pie crust!

#4 Packaging Precision

Packaging must be robust enough to keep all the ingredients fresh for delivery and storage. Force measurement plays a role in testing the tensile strength of food packaging materials. The equipment used to package food must withstand high production. Properly measured packaging ensures food remains airtight and fresh for days before, during, and after the feast. Learn more about Force Measurement for Efficiency in Food Processing and Packaging.

#5 Cooking Appliance Performance

The tools we use to prepare meals, from ovens to mixers, rely on force measurement from engineering prototypes, rigorous testing, and performance monitoring. For instance, the pressure exerted by a stand mixer on a bowl of mashed potatoes or the even heating of a convection oven often involves precise force testing during product design and manufacturing to ensure consistent performance in every household.

#6 Tableware Testing

A festive Thanksgiving table is incomplete without worthy tableware. But how do manufacturers ensure your plates and glasses can withstand the weight of a hearty Thanksgiving spread? Force measurement tests the durability of the materials used to manufacture these wares, ensuring they can endure heavy servings of turkey, gravy, and side dishes without cracking or breaking.

#7 Innovative Smart and IoT Kitchens

For those aiming to enjoy Thanksgiving responsibly, smart kitchen scales with integrated force sensors offer portion control for calorie-conscious diners. These tools can measure precise serving sizes of mashed potatoes, stuffing, and desserts, helping you balance indulgence with mindfulness. Wireless load cells and instrumentation IoT solutions are commonly integrated into appliances to make intelligent appliances for the modern kitchen.

Force measurement may not be the first thing that comes to mind about Thanksgiving, but we love celebrating our behind-the-scenes contributions. From farm to fork, Interface sensor technology solutions help maintain the quality, consistency, and reliability of the foods and tools we rely on from harvest to festivities.

Our US headquarters will close Thursday and Friday for Thanksgiving so our team can gather, relax, and give thanks. We hope, wherever you are, you know we are most grateful for all your contributions, patronage, and support. Thank you!

Ready to explore more about food production, processing, packaging, and the sorts? Check out this video:

Additional Resources

Commercial Food Processing App Note

Food and Beverage Conveyor Belt

Vertical Farming for Sustainable Food Production on Earth and Beyond

Safeguarding Products and Packaging Integrity Using Load Cells

Solutions to Advance Agriculture Smart Farming and Equipment