Abstract

A concentrate, system and low-temperature process for preparing a shelf-stable milk concentrate that does not require ultra-high temperature thermal processing for control of the microbiology of the product is disclosed herein. The method preferably incorporates aseptic technology and the enzymatic reduction of lactose to control water activity. The method preferably includes the enzymatic conversion of the lactose in the milk to its component sugars glucose and galactose, which preferably changes the colligative properties of the concentrate, decreases the amount of free water, and reduces the osmolarity.

IPC Classes  ?

• A23C 1/00 - Concentration, evaporation or drying
• A23C 1/14 - Concentration, evaporation or drying combined with other treatment
• A23C 9/12 - Fermented milk preparationsTreatment using microorganisms or enzymes
• A23C 1/16 - Concentration, evaporation or drying combined with other treatment using additives
• A23C 9/13 - Fermented milk preparationsTreatment using microorganisms or enzymes using additives
• A23C 1/12 - Concentration by evaporation
• A23C 9/127 - Fermented milk preparationsTreatment using microorganisms or enzymes using microorganisms of the genus lactobacteriaceae and other microorganisms or enzymes, e.g. kefir, koumiss
• A23C 19/00 - CheeseCheese preparationsMaking thereof

Abstract

A method and apparatus (20) for heating and dispensing a sterile product is disclosed herein. The apparatus (20) preferably includes a source of the sterile product (25), a flow containment means (30), a pumping means (35), a heating means (40) and a dispenser (45). Preferably, the sterile product is sterile milk which is pumped from an aseptic bag (25) through tubing (30) using a peristaltic pump (35). Then, the sterile milk is heated within tubing positioned within a microwave oven (40), and then flowed to a dispenser (45).

IPC Classes  ?

• H05B 6/80 - Apparatus for specific applications
• H05B 6/64 - Heating using microwaves

Abstract

A method (20) and apparatus (100) for sterilizing packaging (102) is disclosed herein. The method (20) applies a solution of hydrogen peroxide onto the packaging (102) and an alkaline solution to react with the hydrogen peroxide to generate hydroxyl radicals to kill microorganism. The use of an alkaline solution allows the sterilization process to proceed at a lower temperature and a faster rate. A solution of sodium hydroxide is the preferred alkaline solution. The temperature of the process is preferably below 100° C.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61L 2/00 - Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lensesAccessories therefor
• A61L 9/00 - Disinfection, sterilisation or deodorisation of air