Water activity indicates the amount of unbound water (free water) in a material. It is an important factor in food preservation and quality control - for example for the shelf life of meat or other foods. This quality factor, also known as the aw value, depends on the water vapor pressure in the material, the current temperature and the water vapor pressure in the environment.
The humimeter RH2 food moisture content meter allows quick and easy measurement of water activity. We offer two different sensors:
- At the nuclear measuring chamber Due to the large sample volume, larger quantities can be measured within a short time. This enables a higher number of random samples to be drawn.
- The cell again is used for very small sample amounts. In addition, the sensor can be replaced here.
- Many products can be measured, such as butter, fruit mixtures, spices, granules, PVC, mushrooms, xylitol or seasoning.
With our aw value measuring instruments for food, the shelf life and quality can be secured and controlled.
The measuring device is a laboratory device and enables measurements in accordance with EN ISO 21807.
In the download area you will find the instructions for calibration and adjusting the water activity meter humimeter RH2.
FAQ:
What is the water activity?
Water activity is a measure of the free water available in a substance or product and its ability to support the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, yeast and mold. It is defined as the ratio between the vapor pressure of water in a substance and the vapor pressure of pure water at the same temperature and is expressed as a dimensionless value between 0 and 1.
Why is the aw value measuring device important for food?
Water activity is an important factor in food preservation and quality control. Foods with high water activity, such as Fresh fruits and vegetables, for example, are more susceptible to spoilage and deterioration because the water in the food provides an ideal environment for microorganisms to grow. In contrast, foods with low water activity, such as B. Dried fruit, can be kept much longer, since the low water activity makes it difficult for microorganisms to grow.
Can the aw value measuring device also be used for meat?
Yes, the humimeter RH2 In any case, the aw value measuring device is used for meat. Fresh meat has the highest water activity. The preservation reduces the availability of moisture for the microorganisms.
What is Equilibrium Moisture?
Equilibrium moisture content is the moisture content that a material or substance will absorb and retain at a given temperature and relative humidity when in a steady state. As relative humidity increases, the material absorbs moisture until it reaches equilibrium. As the relative humidity falls, the material sheds moisture until it regains equilibrium.
What is the optimal aw value?
The optimal value depends on the product. Each food has its own limits that determine when mold growth is possible.
