From April 2013 newsletter
Cold plasma – a new technology with potential
The industrial need for timely, accurate and concise information on
developments in manufacturing technologies is as great as ever. We
have been disseminating information on novel technologies since
1990, as a blend of desk-based research to produce information
bulletins, and practical 'proof of principle' evaluations of new
technologies carried out with a view to identifying areas for more
detailed research.
The desk-based research, in the form of our New Technologies
Bulletins and Technology Updates, provides a 'snapshot' of current
innovations in food manufacture. To complement this, one of the
particular practical areas we will be evaluating is the use of cold
atmospheric plasmas to disinfect foodborne pathogens on different
surfaces such as steel and a conveyor belt material.We will also
look at its use in treating fresh fruit and vegetables. The primary
focus will be to assess the ability of cold plasma to control
microorganisms under conditions closer to factory reality, in terms
of soiling levels, contact times, material types, and food ingredient
and product types. For the decontamination of food ingredients
and products, instrumental quality assessment will also be
conducted for colour and texture. Potential scale up to pilot plant
level will also be considered.
Contact: Danny Bayliss
+44(0)1386 842130
danny.bayliss@campdenbri.co.uk