Research Food Technologist, Lead Scientist
Voice: 215-233-6417
Fax: 215-233-6406
e-mail:
gsapers@errc.ars.usda.gov
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Dr. Gerald M. Sapers Research Food Technologist, Lead Scientist Voice: 215-233-6417 |
New Technologies for Decontamination of Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Containing Human Pathogens |
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William F. Fett, 215-233-6418
Bassam A. Annous, 215-233-6797
Joseph E. Sites, 215-233-6423
Dike O. Ukuku, 215-233-6427
Angela M. Burke, 215-233-6429
Donyel M. Jones, 215-233-6561
Larry Revear, 215-233-6712
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Project
#1935-41420-007 Objectives: The primary objective of this research project is to develop more effective technologies for eliminating human pathogens from fresh fruits and vegetables, such as apples, melons, cucumbers, and peppers, to reduce the risk of produce-related foodborne illness. Specific objectives are 1) assess factors such as inaccessibility of attached bacteria, biofilm and internalization that limit efficacy of conventional produce washing methods and equipment, 2) develop new approaches to produce decontamination, based on novel cleaning and anti-microbial agents, physical treatments such as abrasion and surface pasteurization, and novel combinations of chemical and physical treatments embodying the hurdle principle to overcome critical limiting factors, 3) design, procure and evaluate novel decontamination equipment required for treatment application in a Biosafety Level-2 pilot plant, and 4) patent (if appropriate) and transfer effective decontamination technology to the produce packing and processing industries. Major Equipment:
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| Updated: September 12, 2005 |
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