The photon counting dual-energy Ishida IX-PD Series X-ray machine employs an alternative sensor and accompanying image processing technology to give the highest sensitivity and accuracy of low-density and minute foreign object contaminant detection. This technology differentiates with high accuracy between product and foreign objects, reducing the rate of erroneous detection. The IX-PD Series also reduces operator oversight by visual inspection and manual effort. Even when product overlaps or has an uneven profile, high detection performance can be maintained.