Each year, one in six Americans will get sick from food-borne diseases, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Most can be prevented, though, with proper food care and precise tracking of temperatures of refrigerated foods. Attacking the problem, RMD Technologies developed a novel system combining a smart thermometer and communication network.
The D-Mometer and TAM Network is a machine-to-machine (M2M) solution that delivers real-time information on the time and temperature exposure of perishable food items. When foods reach the “temperature danger zone” due to equipment problems, power failure, or other factors, the system sends text alerts, emails, or other notifications directly to the consumers’ or businesses’ connected devices.
The M2M system also transmits time and temperature information to a cloud-based server for further notifications, enabling users to take action before the onset of spoilage. The stored data can be used for archiving and analysis, and allows multiple locations to be managed from any wireless device or Internet-connected computer.
RMD teamed up with Florida’s Verizon Partner Program (VPP) for technical and connectivity expertise. Although the system was chiefly designed for the food-service industry, it can be applied to anything that requires exact temperature control, such as pharmaceuticals. National restaurant chains and other food safety-related businesses seemingly have their sights set for its arrival in late 2014.