INACTIVATION OF MICROORGANISMS WITH MICROWAVES AT REDUCED TEMPERATURES

We developed a pilot-plant nonthermal flow process using microwave ene rgy to inactivate microorganisms. The process consists of multiple pas ses through the microwave generator. Each passed material goes to a re ceiving tank for subsequent passes. The Bow rate was 0.96 to 1.26 kg/m in and the dwell time per pass was 1.1 to 1.5 min. Five passes were us ed. The microwave energy is instantaneously and simultaneously applied to the system, and thermal energy is removed by a fooling tube within the process Line in the microwave generator. The cooling tube maintai ns the temperature below 40 degrees C. There was significant reduction in microorganisms in water, 10% glucose solution, and apple juice, an d in yeast in beer. There was a slight decrease in microorganisms in t omato juice, pineapple juice, apple cider, and beer; and no effect in skim milk.