Non-Thermal Processing Technology

Non-thermal processing technology is one of the most revolutionary innovations in the manufacture processes as it suggests new approaches to treat and modify materials without using heat. This efficient strategy utilizes different physical and chemical effects to accomplish certain objectives without resorting to the use of heat. Thus, non-thermal processing technology is a broad term, which describes the use of high pressure, PEF and ultrasound, each being suitable for particular types of applications and industries. Not only do these methods improve the efficiency of manufacturing operations and thus the sustainability of manufacturing processes but also create a new vision of product possibilities and new ways to improve product quality.

High pressure processing (HPP) is one of the most successful non-thermal technologies that use pressure to kill microorganisms and to increase product shelf life. HPP involves application of pressures up to 600MPa, to retain the natural flavors and nutrients of the packaged food and drinks besides eradicating the harmful microorganisms. This technique is helpful in the food industry, as it allows making the products as natural as possible while at the same time, extending shelf-life. Apart from food application, HPP has also been adopted widely in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic businesses with the main objective of eliminating pathogens and preserving the features of delicate chemicals by use of HPP.

Another noteworthy non-thermal processing technology is the use of pulse electric fields (PEF), in this technology include subjecting a product to short durations of high-voltage electric fields. This method disrupts cell membranes, and kills microbes without affecting the heat sensitive constituents of the product. PEF is used more often in the food processing industry and most often used in liquid products such as juices and soups in order to maintain quality, nutrients and color of the product, and safety while increasing shelf life. Due to the high degree of accuracy and the speed of PEF it represents a useful technology concerning quality and the nutritional degradation of spam during food processing.

Yet another emerging non-thermal processing technology that utilizes high frequency sound waves is known as ultrasound processing another manufacturing goal. These benefits can be applied for different purposes, such as improving the methods of bioactive compounds extraction in the food industry, or optimizing the chemical reactions in chemical industry. In the food industry ultrasound assists in modifying the cellular structures and activity thus playing a role in enhancing the texture and quality of foods. In chemistry and pharmaceutical industries, it increases the rate of reactions and improves yields by increasing the mixing and dispersion of products.

Looking at the future, the non-thermal processing technology will have the potential cut a niche for itself with industries demanding more sustainable and resourceful technologies to carry out their manufacturing processes. These methods do not only attend to the consumers’ need for healthy, safe, and quality products but also look at being environmentally friendly thus achieving sustainable development goals. The futures of this subject are further advancements in it that reflect on more elaborated technologies and improvements of non-thermal processing.

The use of non-thermal processing technology in manufacturing processes is advantageous in that it helps firms adapt to changing consumer requirements and industry trends. The capacity to produce the best quality goods and services with reduced bearing on the environment put companies in a vantage point for development and sustainability. Thus, incorporation of these advanced technologies is not simply following a trend but a necessity with regard to present-day dynamic market environment with the aim of gaining sustainable competitive advantage and organizational effectiveness.

Advantages of Non-Thermal Processing Technology

• Preservation of Nutritional Quality
• Improved Retention of Flavor and Texture
• Extended Shelf Life
• Energy Efficiency
• Maintaining Freshness
• Compliance with Consumer Preferences
• Flexible Processing Conditions
• Reduced Production Time

Application

• High-Pressure Processing (HPP)
• Pulsed Electric Field (PEF)
• Ultraviolet (UV) Light
• Ionizing Radiation
• Pulsed Light
• Cold Plasma Treatment
• Ultrasound Technology
• Microwave Processing
• Osmotic Dehydration

KERONE is pioneer in application and implementation engineering with its vast experience and team of professionals. KERONE is devoted to serve the industry to optimize their operations both economically and environmentally with its specialized heating and drying solutions.