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High pressure processing - what AFBI can offer

AFBI food scientists are looking at new ways of keeping foods fresher, tastier, safer and nutritious for longer. One of their most exciting projects is using very high pressure as a food preservation method.
Typically pressures greater than 300 MPa (or 45,000 pounds per square inch) are applied for a few minutes at room temperature. 300 MPa is equivalent to the weight of 3 elephants standing on a strawberry and 500 MPa is equivalent to 20 family cars on postage stamp! This is sufficient to destroy many bacteria and decay-causing enzymes without affecting nutrients such as vitamins. Although the pressures used are immense, the processing conditions are designed so that foods retain their shape.

High Pressure Processing Unit
AFBI has a commercial high pressure food vessel which complements existing laboratory scale equipment. This creates opportunities for AFBI to work with other research centres and the food industry in research and development of pressure-treated foods.

Sample preparation

Samples must be appropriately packaged - vacuum packed in plastic bags or a flexible container. Glass and metals are not permitted. Samples must be able to fit into a basket with a diameter of 16 cm. The packaging must be able to withstand a volume change of up to 15%, followed by a return to its original size, without losing seal integrity or barrier properties.
AFBI can advise on suitable packaging materials or pack samples for use.

Pricing

Please contact AFBI to obtain prices for your requirements
email: high.pressure@afbini.gov.uk

Other analytical services

  • Microbiological Analyses
    A complete range of microbiological analyses is available, including shelf-life studies and pathogen analysis. AFBI has containment level 1, 2 and 3 laboratories. Many of the routine microbiological analyses are UKAS accredited.
  • Chemical Analyses
    Details of AFBI's range of chemical analytical services are available on request.
  • Sensory Analyses
    A Sensory Evaluation Unit is available for the evaluation of products. Members for Panels can be arranged if required.In all cases, AFBI will discuss your specific requirements and schedule your samples for high pressure processing. Charges for analytical work will be additional to the pressure processing costs.
To find out more about high pressure processing, schedule a free trial run or discuss your processing requirements please contact AFBI at high.pressure@afbini.gov.uk