Many mitigation tools are being used to stop the spread of the coronavirus, including social distancing, and enhanced personal hygiene. In addition, health experts are promoting healthy eating as a way to boost immunity. “Here at Purfresh, we ensure that the fruits and vegetables transported around the globe are safe and virus-free,” says Christian DeBlasio, the company’s President & CEO.
Ozone sterilizes cargo and mitigates virus spread
The company specializes in controlled atmosphere for fresh produce in refrigerated ocean containers. Vessel journeys can be long, varying from seven days up to 50 and during this time, controlled atmosphere stops the fruit from ripening. “It minimizes decay and keeps fruit fresh during transit,” said DeBlasio. “I admit we are not the only company offering CA technology. However, we are unique in the sense that we are the only company in the world that adds ozone into our controlled atmosphere reefer container product.” Ozone has the attribute to mitigate the spread of viruses and protect food. It reduces the threat of foodborne illness as it sterilizes the container and cargo, prevents cross contamination and can decrease the risk of many types of surface-borne pathogens by as much as 99 percent in a time frame of five to seven days.
Kills viruses and bacteria
“Ozone can go anywhere air can go and that’s why it is so effective in disinfecting,” continued DeBlasio. It has been scientifically proven to kill pathogens, including E. coli, salmonella, and listeria. It acts as a powerful, residue-free disinfectant that immediately reverts to oxygen, leaving the product’s natural taste, texture, and smell intact. In general, enveloped viruses, like Covid-19 are considered the least resistant to disinfectants, but several studies, including one from the Thailand Medical News, are demonstrating ozone’s ability to destroy the current coronavirus.
“Our ozone system is the only solution proven effective to minimize decay, control ripening, and enhance food safety without the use of chemicals,” said DeBlasio. “Stopping the spread of COVID-19 is a top priority and we want to do our part in ensuring the food we eat is healthy, safe and tastes great. That is why we are investing more than USD $1 million on new equipment this year.” Like SARS-1, COVID-19 is a respiratory syndrome. They are both viruses that can last on different types of surfaces for days. However, the big difference is that with SARS-1 people showed symptoms sooner and with COVID-19 symptoms can be significantly delayed. “This causes a major spread issue and ozone can play an important role in limiting the virus spread.”
For more information on Purfresh’s ozone system and current research on the technology, go to: Purfresh Ozone Coronavirus or contact:
Christian DeBlasio
Purfresh
Tel: (+1) 813-546-0274
cdeblasio@purfresh.com
www.purfresh.com
www.intellipur.com