Pulsed electric field system in food processing

Diversified Technologies has introduced a pulsed electric field (PEF) system which can process tonnes-per-hour of whole fruits and vegetables for downstream processing.

The system modifies the tissue of fruits and vegetables to make them softer, meaning the slicing, dicing, peeling and juicing extraction processes are easier.

Using microsecond 1–50 kV/cm high-voltage pulses to break down cell membranes, more of the cell contents are accessible for extraction, which therefore lowers processing costs.

The company suggests the PEF system can produce up to 15% higher juicing yields. The non-thermal and non-chemical technology also means it reduces energy requirements for cutting and peeling by 20–50% with less waste and breakage. With reduced energy consumption and higher yields, the PEF system provides cost efficiency.

The systems, starting at 100 kW, are easily customisable and FDA approved.