An apparatus for contactless detection of characteristics of continuously conveyed, translucent products includes first and second transmitting units each having an independent light source to generate high-intensity light radiation to illuminate the product, a light-converting element to form a planar light field from the light radiation and a focusing element to form a line of light running transversely to a direction of conveying of the products from the planar light field. A receiving unit has a detection device to pick up the light radiation transflected by the product. Shading elements are arranged respectively between the transmitting units and the receiving unit. The first transmitting unit is arranged in front of the receiving unit in the direction of conveying of the products and the second transmitting unit is arranged behind the receiving unit in the direction of conveying.
