COLD PLASMA TECHNOLOGY FOR MICROBIAL DECONTAMINATION OF FOOD PROCESSING SURFACES

This project involves the development and optimisation of various novel cold plasma systems and evaluation of their efficiency against microbial contamination on food processing equipment and products.
Previous research has shown the great anti-microbial potential of plasmas generated using ambient air. In comparison with current technologies, cold plasma offers a physical, environmentally friendly and economically feasible anti-microbial technique that can be applied in various sectors, including food, pharmaceutical, personal-care and water industries.
Despite its great promise, there are still several challenges that need to be overcome, in order to scale it up on industrial level applications. This project will try to focus on the challenges faced by applying this technology within the food and drink industry, and more specifically on applications on food processing equipment and food products.
The aim of this project is the optimisation of an advanced plasma system for large area decontamination and investigation of the effects of plasma exposure on food processing equipment and food contaminants (e.g. allergens). The project is supported financially and technologically by the world-leading food research organisation, Campden BRI (https://www.campdenbri.co.uk).
The outcomes of the project align with three of the EPSRC prosperity outcomes, specifically: (i) healthy nation by contribution to the safety of the food we eat, (ii) productive nation through the development of an advanced food production technique to give UK industry a competitive advantage and (iii) resilient nation, by reducing food waste and increasing supply chain efficacy. With the support of Campden BRI the research outcomes will be rapidly translated to the food processing sector ensuring impact in the short to medium term.