The present invention relates to a sensor arrangement for a food processing machine having at least processing tool reversibly performing a working movement, the sensor arrangement being provided for monitoring the at least one processing tool. The sensor arrangement includes at least one evaluation unit and at least one sensor unit. The sensor assembly is adapted to be connected to at least one further sensor unit such that the at least one evaluation unit and the at least two sensor units are arranged in series. The present invention further relates to a food processing machine which comprises at least one processing tool reversibly performing a working movement, a hold-down device for holding down a food product to be processed, and at least one sensor arrangement which is associated with the hold-down device as well as to a hold-down device for holding down a food product to be processed in a food processing machine, which includes at least one sensor arrangement which is associated with the hold-down device.