Detection of microbial defects in Parma ham by needle-probing and artificial olfactory system.

摘要

Parma ham quality and compliance with origin certification is ascertained using needle-probing technology to evaluate quality and marketability, allowing non-compliant hams to be identified on the basis of odour changes that are indices of microbial defects. This study developed an analysis method based on an artificial olfactory system with MOS sensors, which combined sampling by bone-probe insertion and calculation of a model for the classification of defects in raw ham. Three groups of hams were analysed in the presence of dry or humid air, which resulted in the development of two systems with differing sensitivities.