XRF spectroscopic characterization of food-grade metals in a multi-crop pulverizer

Ensuring the safety and quality of food-processing equipment is essential for preventing contamination and safeguarding food integrity. In food-contact applications, materials must adhere to rigorous health and safety standards to minimize the risk of chemical leaching and microbial growth. Despite the increasing use of agricultural food-processing machinery in the Philippines, limited data exist regarding the material composition of these machines, particularly those in direct contact with food such as multi-crop pulverizers. This study introduces a non-destructive analytical approach using X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy to characterize the elemental composition of food-contact components in commonly used equipment. The analysis confirmed that key components including the input hopper, pulverizing chamber, and output chute are primarily composed of AISI 304 stainless steel, while the blade was identified as AISI 303 stainless steel. Measured concentrations showed Iron (Fe) ranging from 64 to 70%, Chromium (Cr) between 17.6% and 18.1%, and Nickel (Ni) around 8%. However, Silicon content in some parts exceeded the standard threshold of 1.0%, reaching up to 1.37%, while Phosphorus exceeded the 0.045% limit in one component. Despite these minor deviations, the materials remain functionally aligned with international food safety standards and pose no immediate risk to food safety based on established literature. The findings highlight the need for routine material evaluation to ensure continued compliance. This research contributes empirical data to support regulatory development and enhance manufacturing practices for safer food-processing equipment in the Philippine agricultural sector.