Hybrid ohmicsonication technology for microbial control in cocoa liquor
A hybrid ohmicsonication process combines ultrasound with ohmic heating to reduce microbes in molten cocoa liquor while preserving sensory and nutritional qualities. Designed for high-viscosity, fat-rich matrices, it targets microbial reduction of at least 2-log TVC without changing aroma, flavor, or appearance. The system is engineered for throughput of at least 3 MT/hour, scalable to 5 MT/hour, and is intended to meet EU food safety and materials-in-contact requirements with no additives and straightforward integration into existing production lines.
Overview
An ohmicsonication technology is designed for effective microbial control in molten cocoa liquor while preserving sensory and nutritional qualities. The approach merges ultrasound and ohmic heating to achieve significant microbial reduction (≥2-log TVC) without altering the aroma, flavor, or appearance of the cocoa liquor. The technology is engineered for high-viscosity, fat-rich matrices and operates efficiently at a capacity of ≥3 MT/hour, scalable to 5 MT/hour. It is intended to be compliant with EU food safety and materials-in-contact regulations, requiring no additives and enabling integration into existing production lines.
Technical specifications
- Hybrid System: Combines ultrasound and ohmic heating for uniform microbial reduction at lower temperatures.
- Operational Capacity: Designed to process cocoa liquor at ≥3 MT/hour, scalable to 5 MT/hour.
- Compliance: Intended to meet EU food safety and materials-in-contact standards.
- Modular Design: Supports integration into current production facilities.
- Energy Efficiency: Claimed to reduce energy consumption and product loss.
- Validation: Effective microbial inactivation demonstrated at pilot-scale without compromising product quality.
Technology readiness level
Currently at Technology Readiness Level 3, the ohmicsonication system has undergone initial lab-scale validation. Future phases include pilot-scale testing for microbial control and energy efficiency, followed by industrial integration with relevant production stakeholders. This phased approach supports scalability and readiness for commercial adoption.
About Cairo University
Cairo University is a comprehensive public research university in Giza serving Egypt and the wider Middle East, recognized for scale and breadth. Industry partners engage through co-located laboratories and shared core facilities, integrated university hospitals that enable clinical translation, and on-campus prototyping and fabrication spaces. Proximity to ministries, regulators, and major industrial zones in Greater Cairo streamlines partnerships, site access, and recruitment. Research is supported by competitive national programs in Egypt as well as international sponsors and development agencies. A dedicated technology transfer office manages IP, licensing, sponsored research, and supports startup formation.
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