Laboratories and factories producing bread, baked goods, fresh pasta, pizza and similar products are notoriously high humidity and high temperature environments. These ideal conditions for food production unfortunately also favour the development of mould and fungus, putting hygiene and food safety at risk.
Dealing with unfavourable environmental conditions in the food industry using traditional methods can be complex and costly. This is where UVC comes in, an innovative technology that is revolutionising hygiene in food production.
UVC APPLICATIONS IN BAKED FOOD PRODUCTION PROCESSES
- Cleaning Raw Dough Conveyor Belts: One of the first applications of UVC is on the cleaning of raw dough conveyor belts. Here, the formation of mould spores is a constant threat. To solve this problem, specific UVC systems were designed to inactivate mould on conveyor belts. This solution has reduced the costs and time required for cleaning, allowing manufacturers to use the plant for long periods without mould problems.
- Hygiene in the Environment and Carts during the Cooling Phase: The post-baking cooling phase is another high-risk area for mould growth. To address this challenge, UVC systems were designed to sanitise the air and surfaces in these areas, while protecting the cooling trolleys and limiting possible damage to production.
- Disinfection during the Slicing Phase: The use of high-speed slicing machines is common in the food industry. However, these knives can carry spores from their surroundings or from the equipment itself directly onto the products. To mitigate this risk, specific UVC systems have been developed to disinfect the blades during slicing, ensuring food safety.
- Disinfection of Packaging Lines: The packaging phase is critical for food safety. Here, UVC tubes were installed above the conveyor belts to protect the product from possible contamination. This solution has proven to be highly effective in the production of fruit cakes, biscuits and similar products.
Investment in UVC systems can bring significant economic benefits in the long term. By reducing the risk of contamination and increasing the shelf life of products, significant savings can be made and the company's reputation can be enhanced through the production of high quality products that are safe for the consumer.
SAFETY
While UVC technology offers numerous benefits, safety precautions are essential to protect workers from potential exposure to UVC radiation. Protective measures include the use of shields, timed shut-off systems, and the installation of UVC fixtures in areas where personnel are not present during operation.
Furthermore, it is important to accurately calculate the UV dose required to achieve the desired microbial abatement. Relying on competent companies with products tested by independent laboratories for their effectiveness is therefore of paramount importance.
THE FUTURE OF HYGIENE IN FOOD PRODUCTION
At a time when food safety is crucial, technological innovation such as UVCs is revolutionising the food industry, helping to ensure that finished products are safe and contamination-free.
We have been providing UVC disinfection systems for industrial production lines for over 35 years.
Contact one of our product specialists for an installation proposal and quote.
An overview of the UVC solutions we offer for the food processing industry is available here:
https://www.lightprogress.it/en/solutions/industrial-production-disinfection/
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