Neptune Benson ETS-Ultraviolet Systems Disinfect Heat Resistant Mold (HRM)

UV works so effectively by disrupting the DNA of the HRM or Ascospores, and preventing typical cell function such as germination, replication or assimilation of food. Unlike the Pasteurization process, UV is a flow thru process, and the product is treated in line and with significantly less energy than is required by the slower pasteurization process.

Neptune Benson has supplied several specially designed UV systems with a thin film geometry designed to disinfect HRM and other spoilage organisms typically found in syrup and fruit juices.

Heat Resistant Molds, or filamentous fungi, are a group of organisms that are characterized by their ability to survive the high temperatures of the pasteurization process. They grow slowly, but visibly within final product, which causes the rejection of product by consumers and costly return to the bottler.

The HRM species are able to survive the high temperatures of the pasteurization process by their formation of ascospores. These heat resistant mold structures are typically dormant, and triggered by a high temperature event to start germinating. Ironically the pasteurization process that was implemented to prevent microbial contamination has a detrimental effect. The germination of these ascospores can also cause mycelium formation on or in the product, leading to another form of product spoilage.

The spoilage of pasteurized product is a global issue, as the HRM species are broadly distributed in the soil where the products are grown. Mechanical harvesting, and the need to improve yield often leads to product falling to the soil and thus the introduction of the spoilage organisms. Liquid sugar can often contain heat resistant ascospores. Species belonging to the genera Byssochlamys, Neosartorya, and Talaromyces are typically found, with Penicillium, Monascus and Hamigera occasionally detected. Typically low numbers of ascospores on fruit (<1 per 100g fruit) can make their detection very difficult.

Contact Neptune Benson for information on a properly sized UV system to prevent these spoilage issues before they cause loss.

About Neptune Benson
Since 1956 Neptune Benson has been synonymous with water filtration and disinfection serving the aquatics, industrial and municipal markets. Featuring award-winning brands such as the Defender regenerative media filter, ETS-UV ultraviolet disinfection system and Legacy Sand Filters. With advanced technology and a wealth of experience, Neptune Benson has the expertise to provide effective and cost efficient solutions for a broad range of industry needs. Neptune Benson also offers the AEGIS anti-entrapment shield, Dominion butterfly valves, Guardian strainers, greendrive VFD systems, as well as all Lawson Aquatics accessory products. For more information, visit www.neptunebenson.com, www.ets-uv.com, www.lawsonaquatics.com