Hi, need to submit a 1500 words paper on the topic Use of the Scanning Electron Microscopy in the Food Industry. In essence, the discovery, as well as identification of foreign bodies in food compounds, is a vital activity, which contributes to overall food safety and the assurance of food quality (Smith, 1993). The incident of foreign bodies in food compounds and products can produce a number of dire consequences, which range from process down-time to consumer complaints that negate an organization’s reputation, too expensive product recall or litigation. This paper will examine the use of scanning electron microscopy in the food industry discussing its effectiveness in detecting and identifying foreign bodies in food compounds and products.

In the US, the FDA keeps a close eye on product recalls and categorizes the severity of risks posed by food contaminants. For example, foreign body contamination such as through metal particles or glass fragments warrants a Class II product recall, which refers to a situation where exposure or ingestion of violative products could cause temporary or medically reversible negative health implications (Vierk, Falci, Wolyniak & Klontz, 2002). Notably, product recalls within the food industry are not infrequent events. One of the most prominent product recalls occurred in May 2001 when at least 5,400 32oz jars of crispy sauerkraut were recalled as a result of the suspected presence of glass fragments. Contamination of food products through foreign bodies, which are also hazardous allergens, for instance, peanuts warrants Class I recall characterized by the potential for dire threats to consumers’ health, probably resulting in death. Recalls related to allergen threats represent at least 36% of all recalled food products. In other countries such as the UK, nearly half of prosecutions related to food faults have been linked to contamination with foreign matter.