NIR (Near Infrared Reflectance) technology is a spectrophotometric technique based on the emission-absorption of electromagnetic radiation from matter. Electromagnetic radiation is found all around us, from sunlight, electric light, mobile phone signals and radio music. In our case, we use light radiation from a source located in the equipment that emits only a part of the electromagnetic spectrum. Usually, it is in the infrared part, but nowadays there are devices that already work including the visible range.

Depending on the analytical equipment available and the type of sample to be analysed, light absorption or emission will be measured. Once the sample has been irradiated, electrical signals are obtained which, through the equipment’s software, are translated into graphs that can be interpreted.

With graphs we can differentiate products and raw materials, since the same product (same composition) has similar graphical behaviors.

As well as obtaining analytical values. The size and intensity of the signal obtained corresponds to a certain concentration-quantity of the molecule that generates it. Therefore, this technology is used to determine the quantity of protein, humidity, fat, fiber, starch, ash, even fatty acids, amino acids, pigments, etc.
 
At Dibaq, aware of the importance of obtaining fast and accurate results, we have increased the number of equipment using this technology in our plant to be able to include new ranges and points of use. We have equipment that measures in the infrared, but also in the infrared and visible.

In addition, we are working on new parameters to be analyzed in both raw materials and finished products, which will give us greater agility in controlling parameters with high nutritional value.