Advanced decontamination technology for microbial load reduction in wheat flour
Innovative solution integrating ozone, UV light, and NIRS to reduce microbial load in wheat flour, enhancing food safety while maintaining nutritional and baking quality. Suitable for large-scale milling operations.
Overview
This advanced decontamination technology combines ozone and ultraviolet (UV) light treatments with Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) for real-time monitoring to significantly reduce microbial load in wheat flour. It targets key pathogens to enhance food safety without compromising the flour's baking quality or nutritional content. This integrated approach is ideal for large-scale milling operations, maintaining the flour’s functional properties while ensuring consumer safety.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Ozone Treatment: Utilizes ozone to disrupt microbial cell membranes effectively.
- UV-C Light: Employs UV-C light to damage microbial DNA, ensuring effective decontamination.
- Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS): Provides real-time, non-destructive analysis for monitoring microbial load.
- Maintains Quality: Ensures that the flour's nutritional and technological properties remain intact.
Technology readiness level
Currently at Technology Readiness Level 3, this solution has been optimized and validated in lab conditions. Future phases include the development of a portable NIRS device, pilot-scale implementation, and full-scale industrial validation to ensure efficacy and integration into existing milling processes.
About CARTIF
CARTIF is a private, non-profit research foundation based in Valladolid, Spain, that specializes in applied research and technology transfer. Since its founding in 1994, the center has focused on delivering innovative solutions to help companies improve their products, processes, and systems, thereby enhancing their competitiveness and fostering new business opportunities. Operating as a multidisciplinary hub, it leverages a team of researchers to conduct R&D projects across diverse sectors such as energy, industrial systems, agri-food, circular economy, and digital technologies. Its capabilities are supported by specialized laboratories that offer advanced analytical and testing services, including 3D digitalization and material characterization.
By serving as a link between scientific advancement and industry needs, CARTIF helps both private enterprises and public authorities, such as municipalities, implement high-impact initiatives. Its work is deeply integrated into national and international R&D programs, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence, robotics, energy efficiency, and industrial automation. Through its collaborative approach, the center enables organizations to solve complex operational challenges, improve sustainability through decarbonization and green hydrogen initiatives, and transition toward intelligent production systems. The center's research outputs often result in real-world technological applications that address societal challenges and modern industrial demands.
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