KREYENBORG Plant Technology FoodSafety-IRD

KREYENBORG Plant Technology, in partnership with PS Perfect Solution, has developed the FoodSafety-IRD, a technology for germ reduction, drying, protective treatment of stocks, and roasting and toasting of foodstuffs.

It can treat bulk foods such as tea, spices, dried herbs or vegetables, nuts, kernels and seeds with infrared light so that germs are drastically reduced and numerous harmful substances dissolved and volatised.

Frequently, not only bacteria, yeasts and moulds, but also pathogens can be found in raw materials. Pathogenic germs must be safely destroyed, and microbiological contamination reduced to a minimum. In over 5000 fully documented disinfection analyses of well over 100 dried products (eg, spices, nuts, teas, flowers etc), germ reduction using the infrared light was significantly above 10 log 5 and is thus suitable for germ reduction of heavily contaminated goods. Sensory damage could scarcely be detected — in contrast to cases using traditional procedures. Essential oils were only marginally affected.

The product is a thermal method in which heat is fed to the raw materials by means of infrared light. The light can be precisely controlled in all zones throughout the drum. A special sensor ensures that the product reaches but doesn’t exceed a preset temperature. The raw material is heated within minutes from the inside out. By rotating the drum, the raw material is constantly transported and thereby thoroughly blended. The formation of nests is thus avoided and a uniform light input is assured.

The product is automatically treated for stock protection. If desired, drying, roasting or toasting can be done using the same machine.