Metal Detection in the Food Industry: Carter-Wilson’s Solutions


The food processing industry must adhere to stringent safety and product quality standards. The presence of metal contaminants poses a serious risk to both consumer health and brand reputation. To address this critical challenge, Carter-Wilson offers a range of high-performance metal detectors specifically designed to meet the unique needs of food manufacturers.


As a specialist in used industrial equipment, Carter-Wilson offers a range of detection solutions tailored to this demanding sector. Here’s a closer look at our food-grade metal detectors and their key features.




What Are Metal Detectors for the Food Industry?


Metal detectors have become essential in the food production, pharmaceutical, and packaging industries. Their primary role is to identify and remove metal contaminants that can compromise product safety and quality.


Carter-Wilson’s metal detectors comply with industry-specific standards such as:


  • Food safety regulations (HACCP, IFS, BRC, FDA)


  • Pharmaceutical requirements (GMP, USP)


  • Packaging quality control to detect foreign objects in plastics or cardboard


Our metal detection units offer:


  • High sensitivity to detect even the smallest metal particles


  • Easy integration into existing production lines


  • Full compliance with international regulations


  • Hygienic design in stainless steel, with no dead zones for easy cleaning and contamination prevention


Carter-Wilson also ensures reliable service with:


  • Competitive pricing


  • Premium customer support


  • Basic mechanical inspection


  • Shipping is available across North America




Where Should a Metal Detector Be Installed in Your Production Line?


The ideal location depends on your production flow. Key control points may include:


  • At the start of the line, to catch contaminants in raw materials like flour or spices


  • Post-processing: to detect metal fragments introduced during processing, e.g., broken blades or screws in ground meat or chopped vegetables


  • Before packaging, to ensure products are contaminant-free before vacuum sealing or final boxing


  • At the end of the line: for a final check before shipment of boxes and pallets


A well-planned installation strategy ensures complete coverage and maximum safety. Carter-Wilson can help you determine the best placement for integrating used metal detectors into your production line.


What Types of Contaminants Can Be Detected?


Metal contaminants typically fall into three main categories:


  • Ferrous (magnetic): such as iron and steel – easy to detect


  • Non-ferrous metals, such as copper, aluminium, and brass, require higher sensitivity.


  • Stainless steel (304 and 316): difficult to detect due to low conductivity and low magnetic properties


Carter-Wilson offers detectors equipped with multi-frequency systems and advanced algorithms capable of identifying even the most challenging stainless steel particles.


4 Main Types of Metal Detectors for Food Applications


To meet the varying needs of food producers, different types of detectors are available:


  • Conveyor detectors Are Ideal for packaged or bulk items, such as baked goods, ready meals, or frozen foods. The product travels on a belt through a detection tunnel, which is high throughput and suitable for fast-paced production lines. Carter-Wilson offers standalone or integrated conveyor systems.


  • Gravity-fed detectors: Designed for powders and granules (e.g., flour, sugar, grains). Products fall through a vertical tube. Non-contact detection and easy cleaning are key benefits.


  • Pipeline detectors: For liquids and semi-liquids such as sauces, milk, yoghurt, and purées. Installed directly in processing lines to provide continuous inspection with no flow interruption.


  • Manual inspection units: Used for small batches or spot checks, especially for artisanal products. Products are manually passed through the detector. A cost-effective solution for small businesses.


Each detector type is tailored to specific product characteristics and production constraints. Carter-Wilson offers a wide range of used options to meet your operational needs.




Which Food Industries Need Metal Detection?


  • Metal detection is essential in various food sectors:


  • Meat & seafood: Risk of fragments from knives or staples; high-sensitivity detectors are required for small stainless pieces


  • Bakery & pastry: Risk of wire or broken equipment parts; conveyor systems are well-suited for soft products


  • Dairy: Risk of contamination from filling equipment; pipeline systems are recommended


  • Snacks & confectionery: Risk of metallic packaging debris; detectors with aluminum compensation are essential



Other sectors include fruit and vegetable processing, ready meals, cereals and grains, and beverage production.


Each industry has unique detection challenges that require customized solutions. Carter-Wilson can help you select the right used metal detector for your specific food production application.