An apparatus for the inspection of food items, in particular inspection for bones or bone fragments in boneless or de-boned meat or fish products, is provided. The apparatus comprises means for forming the food items into a shape of substantially uniform thickness prior to and/or during image analysis using X-ray emission and detection means. By forming the food items to substantially uniform thickness, image analysis for the detection of bones and bone fragments is enhanced due to the removal of background variations. A method for inspection of food items and the use of an X-ray apparatus in such applications is also provided.