Dual-stage microbial reduction in wheat flour using UV-C and electrolyzed water
A scalable, cost-effective solution integrating UV-C light and electrolyzed water to enhance microbial safety in wheat flour without compromising quality. This dual-stage approach targets E. coli, Salmonella, and Enterobacteriaceae, aiming for optimized microbial reduction.
Overview
The proposed dual-stage microbial reduction technology aims to enhance the microbiological safety of wheat flour by integrating UV-C light and electrolyzed water treatments. This innovative approach specifically targets harmful microbes such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella species, and Enterobacteriaceae, ensuring the flour remains safe for consumption without compromising its quality. By combining UV-C or ozone treatments with electrolyzed water or oxidizing agents, this solution offers a synergistic antimicrobial effect, optimizing microbial load reduction during the wheat tempering and pre-grinding stages.
Technical specifications
- Synergistic Antimicrobial Approach: Combines UV-C or ozone with electrolyzed water or oxidizing agents for enhanced microbial reduction.
- Targeted Microbial Inactivation: Focuses on Escherichia coli, Salmonella species, and Enterobacteriaceae.
- Computational Simulations: Utilizes simulations to predict optimal treatment combinations, ensuring microbial safety while preserving flour quality.
- Scalable and Cost-Effective: Designed to meet industry demands for food safety without significant increases in production costs.
Technology readiness level
Currently at TRL 3, this technology involves active research and development with a focus on bioinformatics and molecular docking simulations. The next steps include experimental validation to confirm its effectiveness and practical application in real-world milling processes.
About R.V. College of Engineering
RV College of Engineering (RVCE) is an autonomous, self‑financing engineering institution in Bengaluru, affiliated to Visvesvaraya Technological University and accredited NAAC A+. It connects to industry through an active Industry Institute Interaction Cell, 150+ MoUs, and co‑located, industry‑sponsored labs and Centers of Excellence that enable joint training, prototyping, and upskilling on campus. Proximity to Bengaluru’s technology cluster supports internships, capstone co‑supervision, and consultancy engagements throughout the year. Research here is supported by competitive national programs and industry, including DRDO/NRB, AICTE, and ISRO collaborations. An IP Coordination Cell, together with incubation resources and a student‑run Entrepreneurship Development Cell, assists with patenting, licensing, and venture formation.
delivered to your inbox.