Development of short-range near infrared scatter sensor for the determination of fat content in homogenised milk

The present study investigated the development of a low-cost sensor for the determination of milk fat content in homogenised milk using short-wave radiation. Following literature review, potentially suitable wavelengths were selected for quantitative analysis. A circuit comprising of LEDs, photodiodes and differential amplifiers was developed and a sample chamber constructed to house the electronic components and carry out measurements. The light scattering intensity of 13 samples with varying fat contents was determined following standardisation. Partial Least Squares (PLS) regression was used to develop calibration models for the milk fat. The results indicate that the use of single wavelengths in the NIR region may provide an inexpensive solution for fat prediction in homogenised milk.