Finite element simulation and practical tests on Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) for packaged food pasteurization: inactivating E. coli, C. difficile, Salmonella spp. and mesophilic bacteria

Abstract

In this study we demonstrated the inactivation of E. coli, C. difficile, meshophilic bacteria and Salmonella spp. through Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) technology. First, a simulation using Finite Element Method Magnetics Mathematical Modeling was used to obtain the electric field values to be used in the electro-pasteurization tunnel. Then, practical tests were carried out by using an industrial scale apparatus set with the following parameters: pulse 20 s – 40 s, 40, 80 and 450 kV, radio frequency of 350 kHz and treadmill speed at 10 m/min. The results from practical tests shows a complete elimination of all microrganisms, thus proving that PEF technology significantly contributes to food safety and can be used on an industrial scale.