Sensor helps food firms keep their cool

The Lizard Monitoring System is designed to give food processors, warehousing operations, retailers and other companies an affordable, manageable way to keep tabs on temperature. It uses a sensor, web-based interface and various other hardware to enable users to ensure ambient temperatures stay within acceptable parameters, and that they can respond promptly if they don't.

Ease of use​

Lizard Monitoring CEO Rupert Prince told FoodProductionDaily.com that compared to other systems, theirs is easy to put in place and operate.

"With wired systems, there is significant cost and effort​," he said. "You have to get plumbers, electricians and others involved, and by the time you're done, it could cost tens of thousands of dollars​."

By contrast, a basic Lizard Monitoring System (sensor, gateway, software and monitoring subscription) costs approximately $1,500 (depending on the complexity and scale of the system.

Quick installation​

Prince related that the wireless technology installs in three steps:

1. The user places the battery into the sensor.
2. Next, the gateway is plugged into an internet-connected router and position repeaters as needed.
3. The user logs into the company website to set up alerts and monitor all the required cold-storage units.

The operator can authorize other users to access the system from anywhere in the world, via a standard internet browser. Various levels of access can be granted, enabling users to adjust alerts, enter information for the audit trail, or simply view.

Prince said that the interface is easy to understand, even for non-technical personnel, which helps ensure the system is used effectively. Also, he added, the technology helps food firms avoid product spoilage from foods languishing in higher temperature conditions and (in case of audits) aids in compliance with US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations.