AQANAT®: a novel sanitation technology for post harvest processing
First generation product AQANAT® biowater, specific for citrus pack house dip tanks, can be easily integrated with existing washing equipment. AQANAT® biowater is available in three sizes for dip tanks ranging from 1000 to over 5000 L capacity.
Following extensive testing, a first commercial unit has been installed in Sicily at Ortofrutticola Toro & Catena, Palagonia, Catania. Microbial population was monitored daily in the dip tank in collaboration with Prof. A. Ippolito, University of Bari Aldo Moro.
Population of Penicillium spp. (CFU/ml) in citrus dip tank at Ortofrutticola Toro & Catena, from 16 to 26 January 2014. Click here to enlarge the tabel.
The data obtained shows a considerable reduction in the development of filamentous fungi (especially Penicillium spp.) in the dip tank during the recent citrus harvest in Sicily disturbed by heavy persistent rain.
AQANAT’s technology has shown, despite the high tonnage of citrus processed during export promotion campaigns (up to 260 tons per day), a progressive decrease of populations of propagules of Penicillium spp. in wash water at various times of the day (T0, T1, T2... T6) resulting in low levels of contamination/infection of the fruit (see graph).
Over 2,800 tons of citrus were processed during AQANAT® ’s biowater monitoring programme (from January 9th to the 26th) and it was necessary to replace the wash water only on two occasions.
AQANAT®'s technology allows substantial water savings and efficient chemical-free sanitation of dip tanks delivering significant benefits for citrus packing houses and the environment.
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About AQANAT LIMITED
AQANAT LIMITED develops and manufactures innovative technologies for sustainable fruit and vegetable processing and sanitation. AQANAT®'s (patent pending) process combines environmentally sound technologies for treatment, sanitation and recycling of wash water for post harvest fruit and vegetable processing. AQANAT® is a registered trademark of AQANAT LIMITED. All rights reserved.
Further info:
AQANAT LIMITED
Infoline: +44 7597 187 164
Email: info@aqanat.com
Web: www.aqanat.com