Sterilization and pasteurization of spices, herbs and grains
A variety of microbial reduction techniques are routinely employed within the industry for reduction of pathogens.
ETO Sterilization
Sterilization with ETO is a low-temperature process (typically between 30 and 70°C) that uses Ethylene Oxide gas or ethylene chlorohydrin to reduce the level of infectious agents. ETO is used in gas form and is usually mixed with other substances, such as CO2 or steam. It is mainly used for products that cannot withstand the heat of typical autoclave sterilization such as plastic. The main physical parameters to be monitored are temperature and relative humidity.
The total length of the process can vary depending on the goods that are being sterilized, but typical cycles are between 36 and 48 hours. There are two main ways to divide the cycle; a three phase cycle and a five phase cycle. The difference being that a three phase cycle does factor in the pre and post exposure phases. The final process is ETO gas is removed using changes of air in the sterilization chamber removing any ETO particles.
