U.S. patent application number 11/314198 was filed with the patent office on 2006-12-28 for treatment to reduce microorganisms with carbon dioxide by multiple pressure oscillations.
This patent application is currently assigned to SafeFresh Technologies, LLC. Invention is credited to Anthony J.M. Garwood.
Application Number | 20060292274 11/314198 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37567761 |
Filed Date | 2006-12-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060292274 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Garwood; Anthony J.M. |
December 28, 2006 |
Treatment to reduce microorganisms with carbon dioxide by multiple
pressure oscillations
Abstract
Apparatus and methods to non-thermally treat goods for human
consumption with carbon dioxide. Apparatus and methods rely on
multiple pressure changes of carbon dioxide to affect one of three
processes. A first process rapidly freezes and thaws water on the
surface of the goods in rapid succession multiple times to
detrimentally affect pathogens. A second process raises the
pressure and temperature of carbon dioxide to supercritical
conditions to detrimentally affect the lipids in the membranes of
pathogens. A third process adjusts the pressure to form a dense
carbon dioxide liquid with a low pH that may also detrimentally
affect pathogens. All processes may be repeated or performed in
succession, or in any order. Optionally, thereafter, the goods may
be stored at low temperature in substantially 100% carbon dioxide
for further pathogen reduction.
Inventors: |
Garwood; Anthony J.M.;
(Mercer Island, WA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
CHRISTENSEN, O'CONNOR, JOHNSON, KINDNESS, PLLC
1420 FIFTH AVENUE
SUITE 2800
SEATTLE
WA
98101-2347
US
|
Assignee: |
SafeFresh Technologies, LLC
Mercer Island
WA
|
Family ID: |
37567761 |
Appl. No.: |
11/314198 |
Filed: |
December 21, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60637915 |
Dec 21, 2004 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
426/335 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A23B 4/16 20130101; A23B
4/09 20130101; A23L 3/3418 20130101; A23L 3/0155 20130101; A23L
3/37 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
426/335 |
International
Class: |
A23L 3/3463 20060101
A23L003/3463 |
Claims
1. A method for inactivating microorganisms on goods, comprising:
(a) introducing goods and carbon dioxide within an apparatus; (b)
raising the pressure within the apparatus to a pressure below the
supercritical pressure of carbon dioxide, without elevating the
temperature above 104 degrees Fahrenheit; and (c) reducing the
pressure within the apparatus to form ice crystals that affect the
microorganisms on the surface of the goods in a detrimental manner,
without substantially causing freezing of water below the
surface.
2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: (d) raising the
pressure within the apparatus to thaw the ice crystals before the
water below the surface of the goods substantially freezes.
3. The method of claim 2, further comprising, cycling steps (c) and
(d) in rapid succession for more than one cycle.
4. The method of claim 1, further comprising adjusting the pressure
of the carbon dioxide to form carbon dioxide having a pH less than
3, wherein due to the low pH, the carbon dioxide affects the
microorganisms in a detrimental manner.
5. The method of claim 1, further comprising adjusting the pressure
of the carbon dioxide to form carbon dioxide having a pH less than
4, wherein due to the low pH, the carbon dioxide affects the
microorganisms in a detrimental manner.
6. The method of claim 1, further comprising adjusting the pressure
of the carbon dioxide to form carbon dioxide having a pH less than
5, wherein due to the low pH, the carbon dioxide affects the
microorganisms in a detrimental manner.
7. The method of claim 1, further comprising applying ultrasonic
energy to separate microorganisms from the goods and mixing the
goods within the chamber.
8. The method of claim 1, further comprising, after reducing the
pressure, raising the pressure and temperature of the carbon
dioxide to reach supercritical conditions, and holding the
supercritical conditions for a period of time sufficient for the
supercritical carbon dioxide to affect the microorganisms in a
detrimental manner.
9. The method of claim 1, wherein liquid carbon dioxide is in
contact with the surfaces of the goods in sufficient quantities to
cause freezing of the free water in contact with the
microorganisms.
10. A method for treating food to reduce microorganisms,
comprising: (a) introducing food, water and carbon dioxide into an
apparatus; and (b) raising and lowering the pressure within the
apparatus to cause freezing and thawing of water on the surfaces of
the food in rapid succession for at least one cycle.
11. A method for storing human edible goods, comprising: (a)
treating human edible goods with substantially 100% carbon dioxide
at a pressure greater than 300 psig to less than the supercritical
pressure of carbon dioxide and at a temperature less than the
supercritical temperature of carbon dioxide; and (b) storing the
treated human edible goods in substantially 100% carbon dioxide at
a low temperature and atmospheric pressure to achieve at least an
additional 2 log kill rate.
12. The method of claim 10, comprising storing the goods from 4
hours to 20 days.
13. The method of claim 10, comprising storing the goods from 2
days to 20 days.
14. Apparatus, comprising: (a) a housing defining a cylindrical
chamber with a first end and an opposite, second end; (b) a first
piston and a second piston disposed in a sealing manner at the
opposite ends of the chamber, wherein the first piston and the
second piston are driven towards one another to pressurize contents
within the chamber to a first, high pressure, and withdrawn to
depressurize contents within the chamber to a second, lower
pressure; and (c) a mixer disposed within the housing to mix any
contents within the chamber.
15. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the mixer has a piston-like
member disposed in the housing, wherein the piston-like member is
in a sealing disposition with the inner surface of the chamber.
16. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the mixer has a piston-like
member disposed in the housing, and the piston-like member has an
opening for the passage of goods from one end of the chamber
towards the other.
17. The apparatus of claim 13, further comprising, an ultrasonic
generator that transmits ultrasonic energy to the mixer to separate
microorganisms from goods being processed within the chamber.
18. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the first and the second
pistons are driven by the introduction and withdrawal of a liquid
compatible with goods edible for human consumption.
19. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the mixer is configured to
rotate and reciprocate in relation to the chamber length.
20. The apparatus of claim 13, further comprising a first and a
second end cap disposed at opposite ends of the housing to form a
first chamber and a second chamber, wherein the chambers receive a
fluid to drive the first piston and the second piston.
21. The apparatus of claim 13, further comprising a first positive
displacement pump to introduce goods to be treated within the
chamber.
22. The apparatus of claim 13, further comprising a second positive
displacement pump to remove goods from within the chamber.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 60/637,915, filed on Dec. 21, 2004, fully
incorporated herein expressly by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention is related to apparatus for the
treatment of meat using carbon dioxide and to methods of treating
meat using carbon dioxide.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Carbon dioxide has been used to kill microorganisms
non-thermally, meaning that the mechanism through which such
microorganisms are killed is not dependent on a high temperature.
However, the methods using carbon dioxide are static methods, since
after the conditions of the carbon dioxide were set, the conditions
were held for a period of time to affect the microorganisms.
Thereafter, the treatment was stopped. Supercritical conditions,
where carbon dioxide exists only as a supercritical fluid, have
also been tried. These methods, too, were static, meaning that once
the conditions were set, the carbon dioxide was allowed to affect
the microorganisms, and then, the carbon dioxide treatment was
stopped. While such treatments did achieve some reduction in
microorganisms, there is still much to learn in the way of using
carbon dioxide to reduce microorganisms.
SUMMARY
[0004] To solve the aforementioned problems and/or improve on the
prior art, the present invention proposes new methods and the
apparatus for the treatment of food using carbon dioxide, wherein
the carbon dioxide conditions are changed. The present methods for
using carbon dioxide as an antimicrobial are carried out in the
sub-supercritical phase or, alternatively, oscillating between
supercritical phase and sub-supercritical phase, and also include
rapid pressure drop (RPD) and/or phase change of carbon dioxide to
induce ice crystal formation. For example, a method in accordance
with one embodiment of the present invention can begin by treatment
of food with carbon dioxide at such pressure and temperature that
when the pressure is reduced in a controlled manner, the resultant
drop in temperature will form ice crystals that detrimentally
affect microorganisms on the surface of the food. This treatment
can then be followed with an increase in pressure and temperature
of the carbon dioxide up to or in excess of the supercritical
pressure and supercritical temperature to result in a supercritical
carbon dioxide fluid that further detrimentally affects the already
detrimentally affected microorganisms that have been injured or
damaged by the prior treatment. The carbon dioxide pressure can
then be reduced to a pressure below the supercritical pressure,
such that the carbon dioxide is a dense fluid that has a pH in the
range of 2 to 4 to further detrimentally affect the already
detrimentally affected microorganisms. In this tripartite method,
anyone of the carbon dioxide treatments can be repeated or
sequenced in any order, or the entire tripartite sequence can be
repeated.
[0005] The present invention provides a reliable, reproducible, and
effective antimicrobial process for the reduction of pathogens,
such as E. coli 0157:H7, that can be present with goods intended
for human consumption. Such food includes meat, such as ground
beef. The present process provides a low-cost procedure that uses a
solid, liquid, and/or gas agent, such as carbon dioxide.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006] The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages
of this invention will become more readily appreciated as the same
become better understood by reference to the following detailed
description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings, wherein:
[0007] FIG. 1 is an illustration of one embodiment of an apparatus
according to the present invention;
[0008] FIG. 2 is an illustration of one embodiment of an apparatus
according to the present invention;
[0009] FIG. 3 is a cross section illustration of one embodiment of
an apparatus according to the present invention;
[0010] FIG. 4 is a cross section illustration of one embodiment of
an apparatus according to the present invention;
[0011] FIG. 5 is a cross section illustration of one embodiment of
an apparatus according to the present invention;
[0012] FIG. 6 is an illustration of a component of one embodiment
of an apparatus according to the present invention;
[0013] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of one embodiment of a method
according to the present invention;
[0014] FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration of equipment used for
experiments according to the present invention; and
[0015] FIG. 9 is a schematic illustration of equipment used for
experiments according to the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0016] Disclosed are the apparatus and methods to non-thermally
treat goods for human consumption with carbon dioxide. Inactivation
of microorganisms, including pathogens, relies on treating goods
for human consumption with carbon dioxide, wherein the carbon
dioxide undergoes multiple pressure changes to affect one of three
processes. A first process rapidly freezes and thaws water on the
surface of the goods in rapid succession multiple times to
detrimentally affect pathogens. A second process raises the
pressure and temperature of carbon dioxide to supercritical
conditions to detrimentally affect the lipids in the membranes of
microorganisms. A third process adjusts the pressure to form a
dense carbon dioxide liquid with a low pH that may also
detrimentally affect microorganisms. All processes may be repeated
or performed in succession, or in any order. Optionally,
thereafter, the goods may be stored at low temperature in
substantially 100% carbon dioxide for further microorganism
reduction.
[0017] FIGS. 1 and 2 are illustrations of an apparatus 1000 for the
treatment of food, including meat, using carbon dioxide. The
apparatus is arranged in a horizontal disposition and includes a
cylinder 1216 capped on both ends to enable pressurizing a chamber
within the cylinder 1216 in a controlled manner. The cylinder 1216
includes a first end cap 122 enclosing one end of the cylinder
1216, and a second end cap 1219 enclosing the other, opposite end
of cylinder 1216. The cylinder 1216 and end caps 122 and 1219 are
held together by a series of shafts, such as shafts 1213 and 1220
with hydraulic cylinders 1210, 1215, 1214, and 1218 (the operation
of which is described below), which are in turn mounted to annular
rings 1242 and 1244 in such a manner that the cylinder 1216 is
sealed hermetically to end caps 122 and 1219. The cylinder 1216
with end caps 122 and 1219 encloses a space in which goods, such as
boneless beef or any meat or other food product, can be transferred
therein by way of inlet conduits and outlet conduits. A first
positive displacement pump 1227 is located adjacent to end cap
1219, which delivers product into cylinder 1216 at an elevated
pressure. A second positive displacement pump 1231 is located
adjacent to and mounted rigidly to end cap 122 to extract the food
product, such as boneless beef, after processing, from within
cylinder 1216, and in such a manner that will enable the retention
of the pressure within cylinder 1216. Positive displacement pumps
1231 and 1227 can deliver pressure in a range up to 2500 psig.
Positive displacement pump 1227 is attached to a pair of cylinders
1229 and 1228 (best seen in FIG. 2), which are mounted rigidly to
annular rings 1244 and 1226 located around the outer circumference
of cylinder 1216. Food, such as boneless beef, intended for
processing within the apparatus shown in FIG. 1 can be delivered to
pump 1227 with any primary positive displacement pump, such as can
be supplied by Marlen, or alternatively by Handtmann, directly from
a container, such as a conical hopper wherein boneless beef is
deposited in the hopper (not shown) at atmospheric pressure.
Alternatively, any gas selected for its shelf life enhancing
properties, such as carbon dioxide, can be provided in the hopper
so as to minimize atmospheric air that would otherwise contact the
meat or other food products in the hopper. The food product, such
as boneless beef, preferably will have been refrigerated and
maintained at a low temperature, such as 32 degrees F. or lower,
and up to 45 degrees F. The food product can be pumped by a primary
pump to positive displacement pump 1227 at a controlled mass flow
rate and arranged to match the flow rate of the food product pumped
by positive displacement pump 1231. The pressure of the stream of
food product pumped to positive displacement pump 1227 may be in
the order of 100 psi, wherein the food product is transferred at
such pressure through a stainless steel pipe. The stainless steel
pipe may be equipped to measure the fat and water content of the
food product. In one representative example, beef is transferred
into the processing space within cylinder 1216 at an elevated
pressure, such as up to 2500 psi. The mass flow rate of the
boneless beef pumped from the primary pump to positive displacement
pump 1227 is measured and controlled, such as at a mass flow rate
of 150 pounds per minute. The apparatus 1000 includes the conduits
1223 and 1224 (best seen in FIG. 2), which lead into the processing
space within cylinder 1216. Conduits 1223 and 1224 are arranged to
enable combining measured quantities of carbon dioxide, most
preferably in a liquid or dense phase, at a mass flow rate
corresponding to the mass flow rate of the boneless beef or any
ratio thereof, wherein the carbon dioxide is transferred into the
cylinder 1216 via conduit 1223 in the direction shown by arrow
1222. Additionally a measured quantity of water at any ratio of the
incoming boneless beef can be transferred into the cylinder 1216
via conduit 1224 in the direction shown by arrow 1225. In one
embodiment, carbon dioxide, water, and the boneless beef are
combined together in quantities controlled according to such
proportions that the quantity of water is about equal to an amount
of water that previously has, or subsequently will, evaporate and
in so doing, be lost at a rate that is equal to the amount combined
with the boneless beef. However, an amount of water equal to about
0.49 percent of the boneless beef can be retained with the boneless
beef after processing. Furthermore, the quantity of carbon dioxide
delivered into cylinder 1216 with the water and the boneless beef
is such that subsequent pressure reduction produces the required
amount of chilling of the boneless beef as herein described. The
chilling process, enabled by evaporation of the carbon dioxide,
will cause the temperature of the boneless beef to be reduced to a
low temperature.
[0018] Positive displacement pump 1227 and cylinders 1229 and 1228
attached thereto, are arranged such that each cylinder will fill
with boneless beef while the other cylinder is emptying, and in an
alternating sequential operation, such that a substantially
continuous flow of boneless beef will be transferred, with, or
alternatively without, water and carbon dioxide combined therewith,
into the cylinder 1216. The positive displacement pump 1231, with a
pair of cylinders, such as 1230 and the other not shown, are
arranged to operate similarly, and in an alternating sequential
operation, however, to remove material from within cylinder 1216
via conduit 1232.
[0019] The cylinder 1216 includes a centrally disposed shaft 121 at
one end thereof. The shaft 121 is provided as shown centrally
disposed and retained by end cap 122. Shaft 121 is arranged to
rotate such as in the direction shown by arrow 1233. Shaft 121 may
also be arranged to be driven in a reciprocating action
longitudinally, firstly in a direction shown by arrow 129, and then
in a direction opposite to arrow 129. The reciprocating action
combined with rotating motion can be varied to mix the contents
within the processing space of cylinder 1216. Shaft 121 can have a
centrally disposed conduit 1235, which enables the transfer of any
agent, such as carbon dioxide there through and in the direction
shown by arrow 1234. The mass flow rate of transfer of the carbon
dioxide through conduit 1235 can be arranged to correspond with the
extraction of carbon dioxide via conduit 124 from within cylinder
1216. Conduit 124 is attached directly to and sealed in a gas tight
fashion to bell housing 123. Bell housing 123 is fixed in a gas
tight manner directly to end cap 122 and is further located at an
uppermost location, such that carbon dioxide being lighter than
boneless beef and water, can accumulate within bell housing 123.
After accumulation in bell housing 123, carbon dioxide can be
transferred through conduit 124 in the direction shown by arrow
126.
[0020] The flange portion 127 of end cap 122 is arranged to mate
with cylinder 1216 adjacent to the retention ring 128 in such a
manner that the end cap 122 and cylinder form a gas tight seal. A
port 1240 is provided in the end cap 122 such that a pressurized
fluid, such as water, can be transferred there through in the
direction shown by arrow 129. Pressurized water transferred through
port 1240 can be extracted through the same port 1240. End cap 1219
is fitted with a port similar to 1240, but which cannot be seen in
FIG. 1. The operation and significance of ports to allow water at
the end caps will become apparent from the description below. Water
is preferably used in any hydraulic piston arrangement, not only
for its availability and economy, but also because should the fluid
leak into the cylinder 1216 containing product, water is compatible
with goods for human consumption. Alternatively, any other liquid
compatible with goods for human consumption may be used, such as a
mixture of ethanol and water.
[0021] An ultrasonic generator 1236 is shown with cable 1237 that
is attached to shaft 121. Ultrasonic generator 1236 may be supplied
by Branson. Ultrasonic generator 1236 provides ultrasonic energy
that will dissipate into boneless beef within the treatment chamber
of cylinder 1216. It is believed that such ultrasonic energy will
cause separation of any groups of pathogenic cells from the
boneless beef surfaces, thereby increasing the contact of the cells
with the treatment agent within cylinder 1216. Ultrasonic energy
may have a selectable cycle rate of from 10,000 cycles to 100,000
cycles, but preferably, and if need be, outside of such range, and
at any cycle rate that will result in effective separation of
cells. Such pathogens can include E. coli 0157:H7, salmonella or
listeria monocytogenes. Such agent may be carbon dioxide in any
phase, such as a dense liquid, supercritical, or
sub-supercritical.
[0022] A proximity switch 125 is attached to bell housing 123 to
determine the density of any matter contained within bell housing
123. The purpose of proximity switch 123 is to determine whether
matter other than carbon dioxide is present within the bell housing
123. In the event that it is determined that boneless beef has
entered the bell housing 123, the extraction of carbon dioxide
through conduit 124 can be reduced or stopped. Given that the
density of boneless beef will be substantially greater than the
carbon dioxide, it is most probable that carbon dioxide will
"float" and tend to accumulate at the upper end of bell housing
123, and boneless beef will accumulate at the lower end or below
the bell housing 123. Therefore, the arrangement proposed herein
where bell housing 123 is attached to the uppermost region of end
cap 122, results in the removal of carbon dioxide from within the
cylinder 1216 without significant quantities of boneless beef being
carried therewith. Carbon dioxide extracted in the manner described
above can be transferred to a compressor (not shown). After
compression, which may require filtering prior to compression,
carbon dioxide can be transferred from the compressor, and if
necessary through a heat exchanger to enable the adjustment of the
temperature of the carbon dioxide, and then into a holding vessel
(not shown) for storage prior to subsequent use or alternatively
directly to conduit 1235, and then into cylinder 1216.
[0023] Referring now to FIG. 3, a cross section illustration of the
apparatus 1000 shown in FIG. 1 is provided. The horizontally
disposed cylinder 1216 is arranged with the first end cap 122
enclosing one end, and the second end cap 1219 enclosing the
opposite end, thereby providing an enclosed space 174. The inner
diameters of the first end cap 122, the second end cap 1219, and
the cylinder 1216 are profiled to provide a smooth inner bore. A
piston 246 is profiled to fit within the inner diameter of the end
cap 122. Piston 246 may be manufactured from any suitable material
such a stainless steel or, alternatively, a polymer, such as a
polypropylene or other suitable plastic, such as U.H.M.W.L.D.P.E.
Piston 246 has a circular profile which mates with the matching
internal profile of the end cap 122 and cylinder 1216. Piston 246
is fitted with seals around its periphery, such that the seals are
in direct contact with the internal surface of end cap 122 and
cylinder 1216, and in such a manner that a pressure tight seal is
provided between piston 246, end cap 122, and correspondingly
cylinder 1216. A pressure tight seal is also provided between the
centrally disposed bore of piston 246 and the outer surface of the
shaft 121. Piston 246 is arranged in such a manner that it can
travel in both directions shown by double-headed arrow 133. Such
travel is induced by introducing or withdrawing a fluid, such as
water, through port 1240 and into space 248. Pressurized water
introduced into or withdrawn from space 248 causes piston 246 to
reciprocate, thereby alternately reducing and expanding the volume
of space 174 and by consequence the pressure, as well. The
reciprocating action of piston 246 can, therefore, cause sequential
compression and decompression of goods within space 174.
Furthermore, piston 246 can be reciprocated in such a manner and at
any reciprocating cycle rate, thereby oscillating the pressure in
space 174. Oscillation of piston 246 can be arranged to operate at
any cycle rate, such as several cycles per second or as few as one
cycle per second. Shaft 121 with conduit 1235 provided therein is
arranged in a horizontal position and generally parallel with
cylinder 1216, and attached to a piston like member 156 at an end
of shaft 121 in the interior of space 174. Shaft 121 and piston
like member 156 are attached together and rigidly fixed such that
both shaft 121 and member 156 can be rotated or reciprocated in
opposing directions shown by arrow 133. Suitable motors which may
be hydraulically driven or alternatively electric, are attached via
a transmission arrangement to shaft 121 and in such a manner that
will enable a controlled and variable reciprocation of piston 156
and shaft 121 in both directions. Drive motors enabling
reciprocation of shaft 121 and piston 156 have not been shown but
can be readily provided and mounted to the apparatus shown in FIG.
3. Conduit 1235 is provided to enable the transfer of any selected
agent, such as carbon dioxide, suitably pressurized, in the
direction shown by arrows 1234 and 240. Perforations 163 (best seen
in FIG. 6) located in piston 156 provide direct communication from
conduit 1235 to space 174 to enable the controlled transfer of
agent, such as carbon dioxide, and in a manner such that when the
carbon dioxide enters space 174, it will mix readily with beef
located in space 174. Carbon dioxide transferred into space 174 via
conduit 1235 can be sourced from storage or recycled from port 124,
after having been treated and compressed. Piston member 156 has a
peripheral surface having a circular profile that is parallel with
the inner surface of cylinder 1216. Seals can be provided between
the outer edge of piston member 156 and the adjacent inner surface
of cylinder 1216, and in such a manner that will allow piston
member 156 to slide in either direction shown by arrow 133
efficiently. Piston member 156 is rigidly attached to shaft member
121, such that when shaft member 121 is rotated or reciprocated,
piston member 156 will also rotate and reciprocate. Piston member
156 can be rotated and reciprocated in an oscillating movement so
as to provide an effective mixing action to the contents retained
under pressure within space 174. Piston member 156 is arranged with
an opening 238 with edge 251 (best seen in FIG. 6) so as to allow
the passage of goods there through. A more detailed description of
opening 238 will be provided below, preferably the opening 238 will
have an elongated elliptical profile arranged in an arc
approximately centered about the horizontal axis of shaft 121.
Goods, such as boneless beef, retained under pressure in space 174
can, therefore, be transferred in the direction shown by arrow 226
through opening 238, and alternately, through the same opening 238
in a direction opposite to arrow 226, according to the
reciprocating movement of piston member 156.
[0024] Positive displacement pump 1227 (best seen in FIG. 5) with
housing 199 and internally mounted cone 200, is mounted to end cap
1219 so as to allow the transfer and pressurizing of goods, such as
boneless beef, in the direction shown by arrow 208 and 188, via
conduit 205, along path 222 and then after being suitably
pressurized by either one of two cylinders, such as 1228 or 1229,
is pumped through space 198 along conduit 192 and space 190, in the
direction shown by arrow 188. Positive displacement pump housing
199 is mounted directly to end cap 1219 and cone 200 is attached
via suitable bearings to a ring member 1226. Cylinders 1228 and
1229 are attached by rigid mounting fixtures to ring members 1226
and 1244. A hydraulic motor 206 (seen in FIG. 3) is arranged with
drive shaft 204 attached rigidly to spur gear 202, which in turn
engages with ring gear 264 rigidly fixed to cone member 200.
Hydraulic motor 206 provides a driving force transferred via shaft
204 to spur gear 202, such that when activated, ring gear 264 is
rotated at a selected speed. In this way, goods are transferred
from a primary pump in the direction shown by arrow 208 through
space 222 in conduit 205 via rotating cone 200 and into cylinder
1229. A matching piston member 501 is provided within cylinder 1229
in such a way that when goods, such as boneless beef, are
transferred into cylinder 1229, the matching piston member 501
provided therein is subjected to sufficient pressure that will
cause it to slide a distance corresponding with the quantity of
boneless beef transferred into cylinder 1229 and in a direction
toward an aperture 213. Pressurized water is provided at a selected
pressure through aperture 213 and at such a pressure that will
exert a force onto the surface of matching piston 501 within
cylinder 1229, such that the force provided by the pressurized
water onto the matching piston 501, is less than the force exerted
onto the opposite surface of the piston 501 within cylinder 1229,
thereby allowing a steady movement of the piston 501
correspondingly causing pressurized water to be expelled at a
steady rate through port 213. Boneless beef transferred into
cylinder 1229 in this manner can fill the available space within
cylinder 1229. When cylinder 1229 has been filled by a known
quantity of boneless beef, cone member 200 can be rotated to a
position that closes the communication between space 222 and the
internal space of cylinder 1229. When cone member 200 rotates in
such a manner as to close communication between space 222 and
cylinder 1229, a port also located in cone 200 can then
subsequently provide direct communication between the internal
space of cylinder 1229 and space 198. At this time, pressurized
water with sufficient volume, having a pressure approximately equal
to the pressure of goods within spaces 174, 190, and 198, can drive
the matching piston 501 in cylinder 1229, thereby transferring the
boneless beef within cylinder 1229 into space 198 and through
conduit 192. As seen in FIG. 5, cone member 200 is positioned to
allow the transfer of beef through conduit 205 into space 222 and
into cylinder 1229, via port 504 in cone 200. Therefore, piston 501
is being pushed toward opening 213 and expelling water through
opening 213. Simultaneously, or sequentially, water is being pumped
through port 502 in cylinder 1228 to push piston 503 toward the
port 505 in cone member 200. Pressurized water provided to achieve
the driving force sufficient to fill and empty boneless beef from
cylinders 1228 and 1229 is provided through ports 213 and 502 with
a flow controlling valve (not shown) to provide the control needed.
Cone member 200 can be driven in a rotating motion by hydraulic
pump 206, which may alternatively be an electric motor, in a
continuous or, alternatively, intermittent, motion. This rotating
intermittent motion can allow the transfer of boneless beef at a
first, low pressure into either cylinder 1228 or 1229 and then at a
second, higher pressure, into space 198 and through conduit 192.
After the boneless beef has been transferred from either cylinder
1228 or 1229 into conduit 192, the empty cylinder with a matching
piston can be filled with boneless beef while emptying the filled
cylinder. In this way, boneless beef can be transferred into either
one of two cylinders with matching pistons to enable a
substantially constant and known mass flow of boneless beef in
apparatus 1000. Water and carbon dioxide in quantities proportional
or at any ratio to the mass flow of boneless beef, can be
simultaneously transferred into space 174 via conduits, such as
1224 in the direction shown by arrow 1225, through port 191
communicating directly with conduit 192. In this way, boneless
beef, water, and carbon dioxide, can mix together in space 190,
immediately prior to direct transfer into space 174.
[0025] End cap members 1219 and 122 are arranged to mate with
cylinder 1216 in a pressure tight, fluid and gas tight manner (best
seen in FIG. 3). Piston 246 is provided at the end cap 122. Piston
176 is provided at the end cap 1219. Port 182 communicating with
space 186, enables the transfer of a pressurized fluid, such as
water, in directions shown by double headed arrow 180 that will
provide a reciprocating movement of piston 176 in a manner similar
to and corresponding with the movements described herein above in
association with piston member 246. At the opposite end of cylinder
1216, port 1240 communicates with space 248 to enable the transfer
of a pressurized fluid, such as water, in directions shown by
double headed arrow 134. It can, therefore, be appreciated that
piston members 246 and 176 are arranged in a horizontally opposed
alignment within the internal surfaces of end caps 122 and 1219,
respectively, and mate with the internal surface of cylinder 1216
in such a way that each piston 246, 176 can be moved along a
horizontal path within the limits defined by each end cap and
piston member 156, located between piston member 246 and piston
member 176. Goods transferred into space 174 under pressure via
conduit 192, can be further exposed to an oscillating pressure
created by the horizontally opposed movement and corresponding
compression of piston members 246 and 176. Piston member 176 will
be subjected to pressurized fluid injected into space 186 via port
182, at such a pressure and rate of transfer as to cause piston
member 176 to move toward piston member 156. Simultaneously,
pressurized fluid injected into space 248 via port 1240, at a
pressure corresponding with the pressure of fluid provided into
space 186, will move piston member 246 simultaneously toward piston
member 156. During this sequence wherein piston members 246 and 176
move toward each other, the pressure of goods, carbon dioxide, and
water retained within space 174, will increase. Pressure within the
cylinder 1216 can be controlled by the controlled movement of
pistons 246 and 176. Pressure within cylinder 1216 may be elevated
to, for example, from 0 psig up to 5000 psig, and subsequently
lowered to 0 psig in a controlled manner, while monitoring the
temperature so as not to exceed a predetermined temperature upper
limit or drop below a predetermined temperature lower limit. The
pressure of goods transferred into space 174 by positive
displacement pump 1227, can be adjusted to correspond with the
pressure of goods within space 174 by a corresponding adjustment of
the fluid transferred through ports 213 and 502. The compressive
movement of pistons 246 and 176 can be reversed, also
simultaneously, by allowing the extraction of fluid from spaces 248
and 186 through corresponding ports 1240 and 182 respectively,
simultaneously, and at flow rates that will allow the controlled
outward movement of piston 246 in a direction away from piston
member 156, at the same time as piston member 176 is allowed to
move in a direction away from piston member 156. Such relative
outward movement will reduce the pressure within the cylinder 1216,
and result also in a reduction of the temperature. The simultaneous
reciprocating movement of piston members 246 and 176, in a first
movement toward each other, followed by a second movement away from
each other, results in substantially simultaneous elevation and
reduction in pressure within space 174. Concurrently with a
pressure reduction comes an attendant reduction in temperature. The
pressure drop can be controlled so as not to cause substantial
freezing of the goods. Alternatively, heating of cylinder 1216 can
be provided. Similarly, concurrently with a pressure increase comes
an attendant increase in temperature. The pressure increase can be
controlled so as not to cause a temperature that may irreversibly
damage or cause a defect in the goods. Alternatively, cooling of
cylinder 1216 may be provided. The pressure can be as high as from
1000 psig to 1100 psig, followed by a reduced pressure as low as
300 psig to 500 psig. The controlled elevation and reduction of the
consequential oscillating pressure within space 174 can be cycled
any number of times, wherein during each cycle the same or
different pressure and temperature conditions are achieved,
including the supercritical pressure and temperature of carbon
dioxide. Goods having been exposed to an oscillating pressure
within space 174 for a controlled period of retention therein, are
finally extracted in the direction shown by arrow 244 through
conduit 1232. The period of retention within space 174 can be
adjusted and optimized to a period of time sufficient to cause
death, or, at the very least, to cause a detrimental affect to any
pathogens that may be present with the boneless beef.
[0026] Referring now to FIG. 4, a cross section illustration
through the apparatus shown in FIG. 1 is provided. The centrally
located piston 156 with outer section 460 is in a substantially
fluid sealing contact with the inner surface of the cylindrical
vessel 1216 along an annular path 442. The centrally disposed
conduit 1235 allows the transfer of a fluid agent, such as carbon
dioxide, therethrough. An opening 238 is provided in an elliptical
arc profile with an edge 251. Pad segments 481, 446, 473, and 463
having a common profile are shown in a circular formation. A
mounting platform 464 is shown with cylinder end caps 474 and 466
attached to member 464 by way of a circular pattern of bolts, such
as 490, at flanges, such as 486. Ports 472 and 285 are provided in
end caps 474 and 466 to allow the transfer of pressurized hydraulic
fluids, such as water, therethrough. The annular ring 1242 is
mounted and rigidly fixed to shafts 476, 480, 450 and 462. Bell
chamber 123 is attached to a cylinder end cap at a flange 448 by
bolts, such as 484, in a rigid fashion. Conduit 124 allows the
transfer of surplus fluid there through in the direction shown by
arrow 126 or, alternatively, as may be required, in an opposing
direction to that shown by arrow 126.
[0027] Referring again to FIG. 3, boneless beef with
proportionately measured quantities of carbon dioxide and water are
transferred into space 174 such that the space is filled between
pistons 246 and 176. Pistons 246 and 176 are arranged to oscillate
according to sequences that will generate conditions lethal to
pathogens or at least, will detrimentally affect them. Surplus
carbon dioxide can be extracted via bell chamber 123 and space 146
through conduit 124 in the direction shown by arrows 137 and 126. A
proximity switch 125 is provided at a convenient location so as to
provide a means of measuring the density of any matter contained
within the bell chamber 123. In the event that boneless beef or
other such product intended to be treated within the apparatus
enters bell chamber 123, proximity switch 125 can identify the
density and the transfer of carbon dioxide through conduit 125 can
be stopped. Beef transferred into space 174 progressively moves
toward piston member 156 and through aperture 238 in the direction
shown by arrow 226 and thence toward conduit 1232. After
processing, the boneless beef is transferred into conduit 1232 in
the direction shown by arrow 244 and progressively toward positive
displacement pump 1231 with housing 234 and rotating cone 236 which
operates in a similar fashion to positive displacement pump 1227
with housing 199. However, the transfer of boneless beef through
pump 1231 is in an opposite direction of flow and positive
displacement pump 1231 with housing 234 is arranged to provide a
lowering of pressure while maintaining the pressure in space 174.
Positive displacement pump 1231 with housing 234 is arranged with
hydraulic drive motor 228 connecting directly through drive shaft
230 to spur gear 232 which in turn engages with gear ring 262 in
turn fixed rigidly about an outer circular face of cone 236.
Boneless beef transferred via conduit 1232 is directed into
cylinder 1230 with a matching piston therein (not shown) and in
such a manner that the pressurized boneless beef from space 174
causes the piston to travel along the internal horizontal path
within cylinder 1230 and toward port 215. Pressurized water
transferred through port 215 provides a cushioning effect and a
resistance against the opposite side of the piston to that side on
which boneless beef exerts pressure. When the piston has traveled
to the extreme and furthermost limit within cylinder 1230 and
toward port 215, cone 236 is rotated, and boneless beef traveling
through conduit 1232 is diverted at a controlled rate into a second
cylinder (not shown) located adjacent to, parallel with, and in
similar fashion to cylinder 1230. Piston retained within cylinder
1230 is then forced in a direction away from port 215 by transfer
of a pressurized fluid, such as water, through port 215. The
pressure of the fluid transferred through port 215 will be
substantially lower than the pressure within space 174. The
pressure of fluid supplied to port can be 150 psig. Boneless beef
is transferred at this lower pressure along space 229 through
conduit 231 in the direction of the arrow 220. Cylinder 1230 is
mounted rigidly to mounting rings 1244 and 128. Boneless beef
transferred from conduit 231 may then be directed through an inline
grinder (not shown).
[0028] Referring now to FIG. 6, an illustration of a mixer is
provided. The mixer includes the shaft 121 rigidly fixed at a
central location to the piston member 156. The shaft 121 is
arranged with bearings under normal operation to rotate in a
direction shown by arrow 1233 or, alternatively, in a direction
opposite to arrow 1233. The conduit 1235 is provided along the
center of shaft 121 and in direct communication with perforations
or slots 163, enabling the transfer of any matter, such as fluid
agents in the direction shown by arrow 1234. Piston member 156 has
a peripheral profile 153 which can be provided with suitable piston
seals. Opening 238 is surrounded by an edge 251 through which
ultrasonic energy can be transferred.
[0029] Shaft 121 and piston member 156 can provide a mixer to mix
the contents of space 174. Boneless beef, carbon dioxide and water
in space 174 are pressurized by the movement of piston member 156
that is driven by the movement of the shaft 121 in a direction
toward piston 176. Piston member 156 can also be rotated about the
axis of the shaft 121, simultaneously with the horizontal movement
toward piston 176. The pressurizing of the contents in space 174
causes the contents to be transferred through opening 238 in the
direction shown by arrow 226 (seen in FIG. 3). Carbon dioxide is
also mixed with the contents in space 174.
[0030] As shown in FIG. 1, an ultrasonic generator 1236 provides
ultrasonic energy, which is transferred through shaft 121 and to
the profile of the edge 251 following the perimeter of aperture 238
in piston member 156, which comes in direct contact with the
boneless beef passing through aperture 238. Beef is, therefore,
exposed directly to the ultrasonic energy and the effects thereof.
When ultrasonic energy is applied to boneless beef in this manner,
any group or groups of bacteria comprising single cell animals,
such as E. coli 0157:H7 that can accumulate in groups, can be
separated and mixed with the carbon dioxide and the water that is
present in the same vicinity. The mixing action of the rotating
piston member 156 in combination with ultrasonic energy effectively
mixes and separates single cell bacteria. The action of the piston
member 156 in combination with an oscillating pressure and
temperature provided by the two horizontally opposed piston members
246 and 176, provide an effective means of killing, injuring, or at
least detrimentally affecting any bacteria that may be present with
the boneless beef.
[0031] After the boneless beef, or other goods, have been
processed, it may be necessary to empty the contents, followed by
sanitation of the apparatus 1000 as required according to
governmental regulations, such as those dictated by USDA and FSIS
in the USA. Boneless beef is removed from space 174 by applying
pressurized water into space 186 such that piston member 176 will
be pushed laterally and toward piston member 156. Piston member 176
can be pushed toward piston member 156 at the same time as piston
member 156 travels toward piston member 246. A relatively small
quantity of pressurized fluid, such as water, can be injected into
space 248 in a volume sufficient to cause piston member 246 to move
away from contact with end cap 122. Piston members 156 and 176 can
be moved toward piston member 246 until all three piston members
246, 156, and 176 are in direct contact with one another, such that
piston member 156 is interposed between piston 246 and piston 176.
In this way, the contents of space 174 and the space between
pistons 176 and 156 are completely removed via conduit 1232. A
continued rotation of shaft 121 with piston members 246 and 176 in
direct and firm contact with piston member 156 will cause any
remaining boneless beef, or other such goods, to be emptied into
and through conduit 1232. Pressurized carbon dioxide fluid can be
transferred through bell chamber 123 in the direction opposite to
that shown by arrow 137 at such a pressure that will cause any
remaining boneless beef to be transferred through conduit 124.
After emptying space 174 in the manner described, the apparatus
1000 can be depressurized to atmospheric pressure. After
depressurizing, end caps 1219 and 122 can be opened and separated
from contact with cylinder 1216. This is achieved by providing
pressurized fluid into hydraulic cylinders 1210 and 1215, and a
series of additional hydraulic cylinders not shown in FIG. 3 but
identified as 1214 and 1218 in FIG. 1. Hydraulic fluid is provided
to separate a series of steel pads more clearly shown in FIG. 4,
but identified as 1211 and 1212 in FIG. 3. Hydraulic cylinders,
such as 1210 and 1215, are attached to shafts 154 and 164 (best
seen in FIG. 3) in direct and rigid connection to pads 1211 and
1212, such that when pad members 1211 and 1212 are separated in
horizontally opposing directions, shafts 154 and 164 slide through
bearings mounted in annular retaining rings 1242 and 1244. A series
of shafts connected to end caps 1219 and 122 at end cap flanges
1221 and 127, respectively, apply pressure causing the separation
of end caps 1219 and 122 in horizontally opposing directions away
from cylinder 1216. The application of a horizontally opposing
pressure separates the end caps from cylinder 1216, while retaining
the end caps 1219 and 122 in a horizontally disposed and separated
position thereby allowing a visual inspection of the internal
surface of the end caps 1219 and 122, and also cylinder 1216.
Furthermore, the separation of the end caps 1219 and 122 away from
horizontal cylinder 1216 is also arranged to open positive
displacement pump 1231 with outer housing 234 rigidly mounted to
end cap 122 and positive displacement pump 1227 with outer housing
199 rigidly mounted to end cap 1219. The revolving cone 236 of
outer housing 234 is attached via bearings to annular ring 128, and
the revolving cone 200 is similarly attached via bearings to
annular ring 1226. Therefore, when end caps 122 and 1219 are
separated from horizontally disposed cylinder 1216, the cones 236
and 200 of both positive displacement pumps 1231 and 1227 are
separated by extraction from their respective housings 234 and 199.
Cylinders 1230 and 1229 rigidly mounted to annular rings 128 and
1242 and annular rings 1244 and 1226, separate from their
connection seals attached to housings 234 and 199, thereby allowing
direct visual inspection of surfaces that come into contact with
goods, such as boneless beef, under normal operation. In the opened
position, the apparatus 1000 can be fully inspected visually and
pistons 246 and 176 can be removed from their normal operating
locations as can pistons located within positive displacement pumps
such as in cylinder 1230 and 1229.
[0032] According to a method of sanitizing the internal surfaces of
the apparatus, fluids, such as water, provided under pressure into
spaces 248 and 186, and also via ports 215 and 213 and others, not
shown, can be mixed with sanitizing chemicals prior to disassembly
of the apparatus, and other fluids such as chlorine, chlorine
dioxide, and/or ozone can be transferred through ports 1240, 182,
215, 213, and also via conduit 124 and also through conduit 1235.
In this way, substantially all internal apparatus surfaces can be
sanitized automatically prior to opening for visual inspection.
[0033] In a further embodiment, the normal operation of apparatus
1000 shown in FIGS. 1-6, the selected pressure and temperature of
any fluid or product used in the operation of the apparatus or
additionally any mixture of agent and product transferred through
space 174 can be controlled by maintaining selected pressures after
providing the operating fluids and goods being processed at known
primary temperature and pressure. Furthermore, the temperature of
goods processed in space 174 can be measured according to the
resistance and back pressure exerted by the goods being processed.
For example, the resistance exerted against both the rotating and
reciprocating drive mechanisms attached to shaft 121 and piston 156
will increase when the pressure within space 174 is lowered. This
resistance will increase as a consequence of a reduction in
temperature caused by a pressure reduction. When water blended with
boneless beef and carbon dioxide partially freezes as a consequence
of a reduced pressure in space 174, the viscosity of the mixture
will increase and can be measured by determining a variation in
resistance. Alternatively, pressure and temperature transducers can
be provided at any convenient location within the apparatus 1000 to
monitor the pressure and temperature conditions during operation of
the apparatus 1000.
[0034] The apparatus, as described in connection with FIGS. 1-6,
can be used to destroy or render harmless viruses such as
hepatitis, malaria, tuberculosis, the SARS virus, and also the
extraction of prions that may have become mixed with the boneless
beef. Such prions may be the cause of BSE (bovine spongiform
encephalopathy). It is well known that in order to destroy BSE
prions, they must be heated to a very high temperature and to such
an extent that the molecule will change form by decomposition or
reaction with other elements or compounds. Such temperatures cannot
be applied to food, such as boneless beef, and therefore, the
preferred means of dealing with such a food safety matter can occur
by removal from the food stream. In the event that such prions are
known to be present with any food, the food product must be removed
from the food chain and dealt with as required according to USDA
regulations. However, the apparatus disclosed in connection with
FIGS. 1-6 may provide a useful precautionary means of washing
boneless beef portions with super critical carbon dioxide and then
separating the boneless beef from fluidized extracts collected in a
stream of carbon dioxide fluid. In this way, after processing in
space 174, the stream of goods and fluids would be separated into
two streams wherein one of the streams would comprise carbon
dioxide fluid and the extracted matter washed from the outer
surfaces of the boneless beef.
[0035] Referring to FIG. 7, a tripartite method according to one
embodiment of the invention is illustrated. A method in accordance
with one embodiment of the present invention includes introducing
goods, such as meat, carbon dioxide, and optionally water under
pressure in the range of 200 psig to 500 psig or, alternatively,
thereafter, raising the pressure of carbon dioxide within the
apparatus illustrated in FIGS. 1-6 such that when the pressure is
reduced, the water that is on the surface of the goods will freeze,
block 102. However, the reduction in pressure is controlled so that
there is insubstantial freezing of the water below the surface.
Such controlled reduction in pressure is the result of withdrawing
pistons 246 and 176 outwardly by the release of fluid in chambers
248, and 186, respectively. In accordance with this embodiment of
the invention, when the water freezes on the surface of the
boneless beef, wherein microorganisms may reside, needle like ice
formations of microscopic size, form in a random pattern. As the
freezing process of water continues, the needle like ice formations
become part of the solid ice that can form when all water present
is frozen solid. The needle like ice crystal formations perforate
the microorganisms' cell walls and membranes. When the ice crystals
thaw and defreeze, the perforations are left behind allowing low pH
dense carbon dioxide or supercritical carbon dioxide to enter the
microorganisms through the perforations. A pH differential of at
least about 1 or less can detrimentally affect or damage the
microorganisms, so too can the supercritical carbon dioxide solvent
when it enters the microorganisms. Furthermore, pH fluctuations of
at least about 1 between the inside of cells and the outside of
cells can cause further damage. To cause the needle like ice
crystal formations, liquid or dense carbon dioxide is in contact
with the surfaces of the beef in sufficient quantities to cause
freezing of the free water that is in contact with the
microorganisms. To this end, free water may be added to ensure that
all the surfaces of the beef that potentially could have been
contaminated have a thin layer of water that surrounds and is in
contact with the microorganisms. Such water later freezing and
causing damage to the microorganisms. It is intended that a feature
of the apparatus now being described, is the capability to cause
the partial freezing of water by rapidly elevating and reducing the
pressure of the water and carbon dioxide with the boneless beef
within space 174. More particularly, the reciprocating action of
pistons 246 and 176 can be arranged to cause partial freezing of
water provided therein, which is in direct contact with the surface
of the boneless beef. Such reciprocating piston movement can also
cause the flexing of the contents of space 174 and when bacteria
cells are exposed to this physical action, the needle like ice
crystals can affect the bacteria cells in a detrimental manner,
such as by puncturing the cell walls. The rapid formation of needle
like ice crystals corresponding with a pressure reduction, followed
by the rapid elimination thereof corresponding with an increase in
pressure and temperature, can provide an environment lethal to
single cell pathogens. The lethality of the environment is created
due to several mechanisms that relate directly to the temperature
and pressure of the carbon dioxide. For example, when the pressure
of carbon dioxide is lowered to, for example, 300 psig, from an
existing pressure of 1000 psig at 50 degrees F., the temperature of
the lower pressure carbon dioxide will fall below the freezing
point of water, therefore, causing ice crystals to form. When a
mixture of the appropriate proportions of liquid phase carbon
dioxide with liquid phase water and boneless beef, all held at a
pressure of 1000 psig and temperature of 40 to 50 degrees F., and
the pressure is reduced to, for example, from 300 to 400 psig, the
temperature of the carbon dioxide will drop to below 20 degrees F.,
and when sufficient carbon dioxide is present with the liquid phase
water, ice crystals will form. Ice crystals formed in this manner
can have needle like characteristics easily capable of rupturing
the cell wall of a pathogen, such as E. coli 0157:H7. Before
substantial freezing of the food below the surface can occur, the
pressure is rapidly elevating to raise the temperature, block 103.
The cycle can be repeated as many times as is desired. With the
apparatus 1000 of FIGS. 1-6, the pressure of carbon dioxide can be
oscillated, wherein the upper and lower pressure limits are
selected below the super critical phase of carbon dioxide. The
lower pressure limits can be selected so as to ensure formation of
ice crystals when the pressure is oscillated to a low pressure, and
the upper pressure limits can be selected so that the ice crystals
are substantially eliminated when the pressure is oscillated to a
higher pressure. Such oscillation between low and high pressures
can cause a corresponding oscillation of freezing and thawing
temperatures. Any water mixed in or on the surface of the goods
will freeze when the temperature at the lower selected pressure is
sufficiently below the freezing point of water, and the water will
thaw when the temperature at the higher pressure is sufficiently
above the temperature at which water will freeze. When carbon
dioxide and water are mixed together and are present at the surface
of goods, such as meat (or fruits and vegetables), the ice crystals
formed can, due to the needle-like morphology that ice crystals so
formed can create, be lethal to bacteria by rupturing the cell
walls thereof.
[0036] In another method in accordance with another embodiment of
the present invention, the pressure and temperature conditions can
be adjusted such that carbon dioxide, water, and boneless beef are
retained under elevated pressure of, for example, up to, but less
than approximately 1000 psig, such that the carbon dioxide and
water react together to form carbonic acid having a pH in the range
of about 2 to about 5, preferably about 3 to about 4.
Alternatively, the pH can be less than 3, 4, or 5. The pH range can
be about 2 to about 5, or any value in between. The hydrated carbon
dioxide (CO.sub.2.H.sub.2O), or more correctly H.sub.2CO.sub.3 is a
defined compound having dissociated ions represented by [H.sup.+]
[HCO.sub.3.sup.-] at 1000 psig. This condition results in a
lowering of the pH that affects pathogens in a detrimental manner,
and if sufficiently low can be lethal to pathogens and, in
particular, when the pathogens have been previously detrimentally
affected or injured, such as by the puncturing of the pathogen cell
wall membrane, as discussed above. The needle like ice crystals are
capable of injuring pathogen cells by puncturing the cell walls,
and when this condition is followed immediately by an elevated
pressure of approximately 1000 psig, the resultant lower pH can
more readily access the internal regions of the pathogen cell,
thereby lowering the cell pH sufficient to cause death of the
pathogen. The raising of the pressure to levels of about 1000 psig
to cause a low pH can be affected by the apparatus 1000, shown in
FIGS. 1-6.
[0037] In yet another method in accordance with another embodiment
of the present invention, a different set of temperature and
pressure conditions can be achieved within the apparatus 1000 that
affects the microorganisms in a detrimental manner, block 106. When
carbon dioxide is pressurized above about 1100 psig and heated
above about 88.degree. F. (or 36.degree. C.), i.e., the critical
pressure and temperature of carbon dioxide, carbon dioxide is a
supercritical fluid. Supercritical carbon dioxide is detrimental to
bacteria, such as E. coli 0157:H7, when the bacteria are exposed to
a sufficient quantity of the supercritical carbon dioxide. In this
embodiment, a blend of carbon dioxide, water, and boneless beef are
provided to the apparatus 1000. The pressure is elevated above 1056
psig at a temperature greater than 88 degrees F., i.e., greater
than the supercritical pressure and temperature of carbon dioxide.
At the supercritical conditions, the carbon dioxide possesses
aggressive solvent properties capable of dissolving lipids. The
cell walls of pathogens are constructed of a complex structure of
lipids, and these cell wall lipids will dissolve when exposed to a
powerful solvent, such as super critical phase carbon dioxide.
Supercritical pressure and temperature can be produced before or
after any one of the other sets of conditions, discussed above,
that detrimentally affect the microorganisms. Furthermore, all
three sets of conditions can be sequenced in any order, as
illustrated, and repeated any number of times, in the same, or a
different sequence, or even one set of conditions may be repeated
two or more times before changing to another set of conditions. In
summary, the apparatus 1000 can be used to provide three procedures
of varying pressure and temperature conditions of carbon dioxide
that affect microorganisms in a detrimental manner and can be
carried out in any order and repeated as many times as desired.
Such procedures include: (1) oscillating between low and high
pressure to cause ice crystal formation and thawing in rapid
succession, (2) raising pressure to create a dense phase of carbon
dioxide with a low pH, and (3) raising pressure to change to
supercritical carbon dioxide to affect the cell wall lipids of
microorganisms.
[0038] The apparatus as herein described in association with FIGS.
1-6 is capable of transferring boneless beef portions through a
pressure vessel and oscillating the pressure between any lower
pressure, such as about 300 psig, 350 psig, 400 psig, 450 psig, 500
psig, and so on, and up to an elevated pressure of about 1100 psig
or greater, thereby causing multiple sets of circumstances
detrimentally affecting microorganisms, such as pathogens. Such
lowering of pressure leads to temperature changes, such that at a
lower pressure, ice crystals with needle like characteristics will
form, and conversely, upon raising the pressure of carbon dioxide,
a low pH acid is created at an elevated pressure of, for example,
about 1000 psig and finally, by increasing the pressure and
temperature to supercritical levels above 1058 psig and above 87.8
degrees F., lipid dissolving solvent characteristics are achieved.
The raising and lowering of pressure to achieve ice crystal
formation, low pH, or lipid dissolving solvent characteristics via
carbon dioxide can be practiced in any order and repeated as many
time as is desired.
[0039] In one embodiment of the present invention, carbon monoxide
may be provided in a proportioned mixture with sub or supercritical
carbon dioxide, wherein the amount of carbon monoxide does not
substantially exceed 0.4% of the mixture, and wherein the quantity
of carbon dioxide is approximately 99.6%.
[0040] Apparatus as described and shown in FIGS. 1-6 may be used
alone, or in combination with other similar apparatus to perform
the following methods.
[0041] In another embodiment of a method in accordance with the
present invention, boneless beef and carbon dioxide is blended in a
first vessel. The temperature of the beef surfaces and carbon
dioxide will be elevated to greater than about 88.degree. F.
(36.degree. C.) and the pressure within the vessel will be
approximately 600 to 800 psig. A measured amount of water may also
be included to compensate for previous or anticipated moisture loss
in beef and to provide a beef product with a desirable moisture
content. The boneless beef, carbon dioxide, and optionally water,
will be mixed together so as to ensure that carbon dioxide contacts
and dissolves into the liquid at the surface of the beef, and to
further penetrate the beef to a depth greater than about 1/8 of an
inch. In this way, carbon dioxide will become dissolved at the
surfaces. The pressurized boneless beef, carbon dioxide, and
optionally water, are then transferred under pressure into a second
vessel, which is maintained at a temperature greater than about
88.degree. F. (36.degree. C.) and at least a pressure equal to the
pressure of the boneless beef and carbon dioxide specified in the
first vessel. After transfer into the second vessel, the pressure
can be lowered to such a degree that gaseous carbon dioxide will
boil off from substantially all surfaces of the beef so as to
provide a layer of gaseous carbon dioxide in contact with
substantially all meat surfaces in the vessel. Thereafter, the
internal pressure of the second vessel can be elevated to a
pressure above approximately 1100 psig, for example, about 1100
psig to about 5000 psig, preferably, about 3000 to about 5000 psig,
while still ensuring that the temperature at the surfaces of
boneless beef is at least 88.degree. F. (36.degree. C.), such as
between about 90.degree. F. to about 100.degree. F. Preferably, the
temperature should not exceed about 104.degree. F. to about
105.degree. F. By ejecting the boneless beef from the second
vessel, which may be via a grinder, the temperature of the boneless
beef will be reduced accordingly. By allowing the controlled
expansion of carbon dioxide, a chilling effect is achieved. The
amount of carbon dioxide evaporated will be adjusted such that the
temperature of the boneless beef will be reduced to a selected
temperature, such as about 32.degree. F. or within a range of, for
example, about 28.degree. F. to about 36.degree. F.
[0042] Another method of cold pasteurization of fresh beef, by use
of carbon dioxide as the primary agent, is disclosed in the
following steps. Beef and carbon dioxide are mixed in a vessel. The
temperature of the beef surfaces is held at about 30.degree. F. to
about 36.degree. F. The carbon dioxide is at about 600 psig to
about 800 psig and at about the same temperature as the beef. The
boneless beef, carbon dioxide (and optionally water), can be mixed
together so as to ensure that carbon dioxide contacts and dissolves
into the liquid phase at the surface of the beef, and to further
penetrate the beef to a depth up to or deeper than about 1/8 of an
inch. In this way, carbon dioxide will dissolve at substantially
all surfaces of the beef. Thereafter, the boneless beef, carbon
dioxide, and optionally water are then transferred under pressure
into a second vessel that is maintained at a substantially constant
temperature at about 30.degree. F. to 36.degree. F., and at least
at a pressure equal to the pressure of the boneless beef and carbon
dioxide as specified above. After transfer into the second vessel,
the pressure can be lowered to a degree such that gaseous carbon
dioxide will boil off from substantially all surfaces of the beef
so as to provide a layer of gaseous carbon dioxide in contact with
substantially all meat surfaces in the vessel. After the process of
boiling of carbon dioxide has been substantially completed, the
internal pressure of the second vessel can be elevated to a
pressure above about 1100 psig, for example, about 1100 psig to
about 5000 psig, or preferably, about 3000 psig to about 5000 psig,
while still ensuring that the temperature at the surfaces of the
boneless beef is at least 88.degree. F. (36.degree. C.), for
example, between about 90.degree. F. to about 100.degree. F.
Preferably, the temperature should not exceed 104.degree. F. to
105.degree. F. Thereafter, the boneless beef can be ejected from
the second vessel, which may be via a grinder, such that the
temperature of the boneless beef will be reduced accordingly. By
allowing the controlled expansion of carbon dioxide, a chilling
effect is achieved. The amount of evaporated carbon dioxide will be
adjusted such that the temperature of the boneless beef will be
reduced to a temperature of about 32.degree. F. or within a range
of about 28.degree. F. to about 36.degree. F.
[0043] Another embodiment of a method according to the present
invention of cold pasteurization of fresh meat, by use of carbon
dioxide as the principle agent with a blend of ethanol and water,
is disclosed in the following steps. Boneless beef is blended under
pressure, with carbon dioxide and a measured quantity of an aqueous
solution comprising about 5% ethanol, wherein the balance is water.
The temperature of the meat will be at about 30.degree. F. to about
36.degree. F. and the carbon dioxide will be about 600 psig to 800
psig and at about the same temperature as the meat. A measured
amount of water may also be included to compensate for prior or
anticipated moisture loss in the beef to produce a beef product
having a desired amount of moisture. The boneless beef, carbon
dioxide, ethanol solution, and optionally water, will be mixed
together so as to ensure that carbon dioxide and ethanol solution
contacts and dissolves into the liquid phase at the surface of the
meat, so that the carbon dioxide penetrates the meat to a depth
about equal to or greater than about 1/8 of an inch. In this way,
carbon dioxide will become entrained at substantially all surfaces
of the beef. The pressurized boneless beef, carbon dioxide, and
measured quantity of ethanol solution, are then transferred under
pressure into a second vessel, which is maintained at a
substantially constant temperature of about 30.degree. F. to about
36.degree. F. and a pressure at least equal to the pressure of the
boneless beef and carbon dioxide as specified above. After transfer
into the second vessel, the pressure can be lowered to such a
degree that gaseous carbon dioxide will boil from substantially all
surfaces of the beef so as to provide a layer of gaseous carbon
dioxide in contact with substantially all meat surfaces in the
vessel. After the process of boiling of carbon dioxide has been
substantially completed, the internal pressure of the second vessel
can be elevated to a pressure above about 1100 psig, for example,
about 1100 psig to about 5000 psig, preferably, about 3000 psig to
about 5000 psig, while still ensuring that the temperature at the
surfaces of the boneless beef is approximately 30.degree. F. to
36.degree. F. The boneless beef is then extracted from the second
vessel and immediately exposed to ambient atmospheric pressure. The
beef extraction may be via a grinder and the temperature of the
boneless beef will be reduced by rapid expansion and/or boiling of
the carbon dioxide. By allowing the controlled expansion of carbon
dioxide, a chilling effect is achieved. The amount of carbon
dioxide evaporated will be adjusted such that the temperature of
the boneless beef will be reduced to a selected temperature, such
as about 28.degree. F. to about 36.degree. F.
[0044] Another embodiment of the present invention includes the
following steps. Beef and carbon dioxide are pressurized within a
first "unsealed" pressure vessel which may include an extruder,
such as a twin or a single screw in a first temperature controlled
condition for a selected period of time of about 1 to about 15
minutes. During this step, an agent such as carbon dioxide, may be
injected into the first pressure vessel with any other selected
agents at a pressure of about 500 psig to about 5000 psig and at
any selected temperature. During this step, a proportion of the
bacterial population of the meat may be killed. The pressure in
this first step may be about 500 psig to about 5000 psig, and may
achieve a reduction in the bacteria population of log 0.3 to log 2.
Thereafter, the beef and carbon dioxide are transferred to a second
"unsealed" pressure vessel and conditions are adjusted to a second
temperature or range of temperatures of about 30.degree. F. to
about 104.degree. F. and a pressure of about 500 psig to about 5000
psig. Antimicrobial agents, such as liquid or supercritical carbon
dioxide at a temperature of about 40.degree. C. and at about 3000
psig can be added to the second vessel. The period of exposure in
the second vessel is 1 minute to about 2 hours to a achieve a
bacteria reduction of about log 0.5 to log 3. Thereafter, the
mixture is transferred in a mass flow controlled stream through a
first, variable speed grinder and into an enclosed conduit filled
with a gas, such as carbon dioxide. The conduit is connected
directly to a third vessel at a lower pressure than the second
vessel and the temperature is controlled at about 32.degree. F. The
pressure on the second vessel side of the grinding plate is
therefore considerably higher than the third vessel side of the
grinding plate. It may be preferable to elevate the pressure of the
third vessel so that a pressure drop across the grinding plate is
about 500 psig, so, for example, the second vessel pressure is
about 3000 psig and the pressure within the third vessel is
approximately 2500 psig. The pressure drop between the second and
third vessels will result in a substantial drop in temperature and
pressure which can cause additional death and injury to the
bacteria. A series of staged pressure drops between a corresponding
fourth, fifth and sixth or more, pressure vessels or conduits can
be arranged. Most preferably, the final vessel is at atmospheric
pressure, and can be a blending apparatus with a suitable pump
attached to enable measured and controlled pumping of a blended
stream of ground and chilled beef into a conduit attached to a fat
measuring device. The stream can then be combined with at least one
other stream of ground beef having been treated, measured, and
controlled in similar fashion in equipment located adjacent to the
first set of equipment, and may achieve a bacteria reduction of log
0.2 to log 2. The combined first and second treated streams of
ground beef can then be transferred, in a single stream, via
enclosed and selected gas filled blending, pumping and
proportioning equipment to a suitable packaging machine, such as a
K-Pak chub machine, ensuring that any voids in the finished chub
package are substantially filled with carbon dioxide gas or
alternatively to a pattie former, such as a Formax. During the
period that the ground beef resides in a chub package which can be
as much as 28 days given that temperature is maintained at
approximately 4.degree. C., death of injured bacteria can be
substantial, and may achieve a bacteria reduction of log 1 to log
5.
[0045] In another embodiment of the invention, meat, such as
boneless beef, can be packaged in any gas barrier packaging and
stored in refrigeration for sufficient time to ensure adequate
bacteria death after treatment with carbon dioxide at pressure of
about 300 psig to about 1000 psig. Barrier packaging includes any
packaging materials that are substantially gas impermeable. By
allowing the beef treated with carbon dioxide, pasteurization of
the boneless beef (i.e., a 5 log kill of bacteria population on the
beef) can be achieved (or with a greater or lower bacteria
population as may be required), by firstly treating the beef in a
process as described in association with the apparatus of FIGS.
1-6, followed by packaging in gas barrier material for a suitable
period such as 4 hours and up to 20 days.
EXAMPLES
[0046] The antimicrobial effects of carbon dioxide at pressures of
about 300 to about 1000 psig with time and temperature on fresh
beef inoculated with E. coli 0157 were investigated to determine
the effects of post treatment storage of meat in an approximately
100% carbon dioxide atmosphere at ambient pressure and about
4.degree. C. on any surviving E. coli 0157 bacteria, and to study
the antimicrobial effects of super critical carbon dioxide on the
natural micro flora of meat.
[0047] Experiments were carried out at Kansas Sate University (KSU)
Food Science Institute, Food Microbiology lab. Full details and
drawings of the equipment are documented at the University.
High Pressure Reactor
[0048] To carry out the experiments, a high pressure reactor was
designed to the following specifications. [0049] A vessel built to
withstand about 3000 psig with top and bottom vents for the
addition/venting of carbon dioxide gas as required. [0050] An
analog pressure gauge. [0051] A digital temperature recorder on the
top vent from the vessel. [0052] A pH probe that could be
raised/lowered into the center of the reactor top. [0053] A supply
of liquid carbon dioxide at about 300 psi and -20.degree. C. [0054]
A supply of gaseous carbon dioxide heated to about 56.degree. C. in
a hot water bath. [0055] A supplementary probe to measure the
temperature of the reactor barrel surface. [0056] Lap top computer
to record temperature data.
[0057] FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration of laboratory equipment
800 used in carrying out various tests of the treatment of meat
with carbon dioxide. The apparatus 800 includes pressure cylinders
804, 806, and 808 with high-pressure piping 824, pressure release
safety valve 828 and on/off valves 812, 814, 816, 818, 820, and
822. Meat samples, having been inoculated, are suspended from a
centrally located shaft within the cylinder 804 and the upper
member 802 is bolted to the cylinder 804 in a manner that
substantially ensures a leak-proof and pressure tight seal. A
stream of fluid carbon dioxide 824 that progressively turns to
liquid is transferred into the cylinder 804 until the suspended
meat samples therein are immersed in the liquid carbon dioxide.
After a recorded and selected period of time, the liquid carbon
dioxide is removed from the cylinder 804 and the pressure therein
reduced to ambient atmospheric pressure. The samples can then be
removed from the cylinder and the reduction of bacteria population
determined. The items 806 and 808 are commonly referred to as an
intensifier. Opening valve 812 allows filling the cylinder 806 with
low pressure fluid carbon dioxide, and then, after isolation of the
lower pressure source of the fluid carbon dioxide, a piston in
cylinder 808 is activated by hydraulic oil from line 826 (or
high-pressure air or gas) and a smaller diameter piston in cylinder
806 compresses the fluid carbon dioxide and elevates the pressure.
The higher pressure carbon dioxide fluid in line 824 is then
transferred to cylinder 804 via a selected path through
high-pressure piping 824 as shown.
[0058] FIG. 9 is a schematic illustration of laboratory equipment
900 comprising pressure cylinders 904, 910, 906, 908, and 912 with
high-pressure piping 928, pressure release safety valve 934 and
on/off valves 914, 916, 918, 920, 922, and 924. The intensifier 906
and 908 in FIG. 9, operate as described similar to items 806 and
808 in association with FIG. 8. The low pressure carbon dioxide
line 926 feeds cylinder 906, and then, after isolation of the lower
pressure source of the fluid carbon dioxide, a piston in cylinder
908 is activated by hydraulic oil from line 930 and a smaller
diameter piston in cylinder 906 compresses the fluid carbon dioxide
and elevates the pressure. The higher pressure carbon dioxide fluid
in line 928 is then transferred to cylinders 904 and 910. Cylinders
910 and 912 are arranged in a manner that allows rapid pressure
increase within cylinder 904 and then rapid pressure reduction
through an arrangement of hydraulic piston fed by hydraulic line
932. This can enable the ingress of supercritical carbon dioxide
through the membrane (outer skin) of a bacteria cell and when the
pressure drops rapidly, the sudden expansion of the carbon dioxide
gas inside the cell can cause rupturing of the membrane and death
of the bacteria.
Microbiological Inoculation and Analysis of Samples
[0059] The Food Microbiology lab was well equipped with equipment,
facilities and staff to safely and effectively grow inocula of E.
coli 0157 and carry out the analysis of samples after treatment.
The methodology included the following.
E. coli 0157 Inoculum Preparation
[0060] Cell cultures were grown overnight in a nutrient broth. The
cells were separated by centrifugation and washed in a sterile
buffer. The E. coli cell suspension was then diluted to give log
7-9 cell per ml.
Meat Sample Preparation
[0061] Meat was purchased at a local retail store. The meat was
aseptically cut into 1 inch cubes and suspended by attachment to
sterile fish hooks. Meat samples were then placed into an
inoculation chamber where they were sprayed with about 10 mls of
the cell inoculum. This was done ensuring that all 6 sides of each
piece of meat received the same exposure to the E. coli. The
samples were then allowed to stand for about 30 minutes at room
temperature to achieve the attachment of the E. coli to the meat.
One of these meat samples was immediately taken and analyzed for E.
coli (as a control). The remaining inoculated samples were then
placed into the reactor and the experiment started.
Meat Sample Attachment Equipment
[0062] One (1) inch meat cube samples were suspended from the pH
probe using small fishing hooks and line so that the cubes were
suspended in the bottom third of the reactor and were neither
touching each other nor the walls of the vessel.
Microbial Analysis
[0063] Each meat sample was placed into a sterile bag and weighed,
a known volume of sterile buffer was added as a diluent and the
meat sample homogenized in a `Stomacher`. This suspension was then
further diluted as 1:10 dilutions and duplicate 1 ml samples were
plated onto the surface of agar media formulated for the
enumeration of E. coli 0157. The bacterial levels were recorded as
colony forming units CFU per g. or as log 10 of that number.
EXPERIMENTS
[0064] Several runs of the equipment were made using un-inoculated
meat to gain an understanding of the reactor performance.
[0065] Meat was placed into the reactor and the pressure was raised
to about 300 psig. The pressure was maintained at 300 psig with the
continuous addition of carbon dioxide until the temperature as
measured on the temperature probe dropped to 0.degree. C. The
carbon dioxide was turned off and held for about 5 minutes. Carbon
dioxide liquid and gas was exhausted from the bottom of the reactor
so as to minimize the production of carbon dioxide "snow" and the
meat samples were removed and their appearance noted.
[0066] In the next experiment, the pressure was raised to a final
pressure of about 1000 psig. This was done as stated above but on
reaching about 300 psig and 0.degree. C., the liquid carbon dioxide
was turned off and compressed carbon dioxide at about 56.degree. C.
was added until the pressure reached about 1000 psig. On obtaining
the final conditions of about 1000 psig and about 0.degree. C., the
reactor was held for about 5 minutes and then the carbon dioxide
exhausted as before. The meat was removed and its appearance
noted.
CONCLUSION
[0067] In both experiments, the meat appeared unaffected by the
process. There was a very slight discoloration of the meat due to
the carbon dioxide, but the meat quickly "bloomed" so that its
appearance was identical to the meat samples that had not been
tested. The fat appeared whiter but was mainly unaffected by the
process. These observations were surprising since it is believed
that in any process that would be anti-microbial there would be
some damage to the exposed surface of the meat.
EXPERIMENT 1
[0068] The methodology was as stated above. The reactor contained
inoculated meat. The pressure was raised to about 300 psig until
the reactor temperature was about 0.degree. C. The pressure was
then raised to about 1000 psig and then held for about 10
minutes.
[0069] The data is provided in TABLE 1 below. TABLE 1 shows a first
column 1 (SAMPLE #) and below this heading, each horizontal line
has a number 1 through 5. The details of inocula used in the
testing are shown in line 1. The control is shown in line 2. Lines
3 through 5 (A, B, and C) show the replicates and sample treatment
which in line 3A indicates a treatment of 300-1000 psig for 10
minutes. Lines 4B and 5C also show similar treatments. The weight
of samples is recorded in column 3, volume of diluents in column 4,
column 5 indicates the quantity of plates per replicate and column
6 shows the Colony Formation Units (CFU) in all plates. Column 7
shows the dilution. Column 8 shows the Type of plate and column 9
shows volume. Column 10 shows the final Colony Formation Units
(CFU) per gram and column 11 shows the logs of bacteria counted in
the samples, inocula and control. It can be seen from the numbers
in column 11 that the treatment shown in column 2 has had minor or
no effect on the populations of bacteria in the finished
replicates.
Experiment 1
[0070] Inoculated meat. Liquid CO.sub.2 @340 psi until .degree. C.
and pressurized to 1000 psi held for 10 min. TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1
2 3 4 6 8 1 SAMPLE Weight of Vol. of 5 CFU in all 7 Type of 9 10 11
SAMPLE # DESCRIPTION Sample Diluent Plates # plates Dilution plate
Vol CFU/g Logs 1 INOC Inoculum 1 1 -2 99 4 4b 0.0075 66,000,000.0
7.82 2 CTRL Inoculated NT 14.8 50 2 146 4 t 0.05 49,324,324.3 7.69
3 A Rep 1. 300-1000 9.2 50 2 76 2 4c 0.00457 4,519,075.3 6.66 psi
10 min. 4 B Rep 1. 300-1000 11.3 50 2 95 4 t 0.05 42,035,398.2 7.62
psi 10 min. 5 C Rep 1. 300-1000 10.9 50 2 55 4 t 0.05 25,229,357.8
7.40 psi 10 min.
[0071] The difference in the counts between the control log 7.69
and the average of the 3 test samples log 7.22 is a very poor 0.47
log reduction. The meat surface appearance was as stated above.
EXPERIMENT 2
[0072] In this experiment, the temperature of the vessel was
lowered to about -17.degree. C. at about 300 psig before raising
the pressure to about 1000 psig and holding for about 5
minutes.
[0073] The data is provided in TABLE 2 below. TABLE 2 shows a
different treatment, as indicated in the description above.
However, the results in column 11 show an approximate 1 log
reduction of bacteria population after the treatment when compared
with the bacteria population prior to the treatment.
Experiment 2
[0074] Inoculated meat. Liquid CO.sub.2 @340 psi until -17.degree.
C. held for 5 min. and pressurized to 1000 psi held for 5 min.
TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 SAMPLE Weight of Vol. of CFU in all Type of
SAMPLE # DESCRIPTION Sample Diluent Plates # plates Dilution plate
Vol CFU/g Logs 6 INOC Inoculum 1 1 2 94 6 4b 0.0075 6,266,666,666.7
9.80 7 CTRL Inoculated NT 15.2 50 2 179 4 t 0.05 58,881,578.9 7.77
8 A Rep 1. 300-1000 22.7 50 2 16 4 t 0.05 3,524,229.1 6.55 psi 10
min. 9 B Rep 1. 300-1000 25.7 50 2 8 4 t 0.05 1,556,420.2 6.19 psi
10 min. 10 C Rep 1. 300-1000 20.6 50 2 25 4 t 0.05 6,067,961.2 6.78
psi 10 min.
[0075] The difference between the control log 7.77 and the average
of the test samples log 6.5 was log 1.27. Although this was much
better kill of E. coli 0157 than in the previous experiment, the
meat on removal from the reactor was frozen and brittle. Some of
the microbial reduction will have been due to the freezing of the
meat. On thawing, the meat bloomed and was again identical in
appearance to the untreated meat.
EXPERIMENT 3
[0076] In this experiment, the time of exposure was extended in
comparison to the previous experiment, and some of the treated
samples were stored in an approximately 100% carbon dioxide
atmosphere at about 4.degree. C. for several days before analysis.
This experiment was as performed for Experiment 1, and 6 samples
were placed into the reactor and held for about 4 hours at about
1000 psig. Three samples were analyzed immediately and 3 were
stored at about 4.degree. C. in carbon dioxide. In this experiment,
a thermocouple was fixed to the outside of the reactor surface in
order to track the reactor temperature with time. The temperature
started at about 0.degree. C. and slowly increased to about
13.degree. C. over the 4-hour period.
[0077] The data is provided in TABLE 3 below. Replicates 13A
through 18F were all similarly treated as indicated in column 2
(SAMPLE DESCRIPTION). Replicates in lines 13A through 15C show an
approximate 1 log bacteria population reduction, however,
replicates in lines 16D through 18F show that the population has
been reduced by approximately 3 to 4 logs after 4 days' storage in
a gas barrier bag filled with carbon dioxide gas at 4.degree. C.
and ambient atmospheric pressure.
Experiment 3
[0078] Inoculated meat. Liquid CO.sub.2 @340 psi until .degree. C.
and pressurized to 1000 psi @13.degree. C. held for 4 hours.
TABLE-US-00003 TABLE 3 SAMPLE Weight of Vol. of CFU in all Type of
SAMPLE # DESCRIPTION Sample Diluent Plates # plates Dilution plate
Vol CFU/g Logs 11 INOC Inoculum 1 1 2 96 6 4b 0.0075
6,400,000,000.0 9.81 12 CTRL Inoculated NT 10.7 50 2 159 4 t 0.05
74,299,065.4 7.87 13 A Rep 1. 300-1000 12.4 50 2 21 4 t 0.05
8,467,741.9 6.93 psi 4 hr. 14 B Rep 1. 300-1000 14.3 50 2 25 4 t
0.05 8,741,258.7 6.94 psi 4 hr. 15 C Rep 1. 300-1000 12.2 50 2 35 4
t 0.05 14,344,362.3 7.16 psi 4 hr. 16 D Rep 1. 300-1000 13.1 50 2
74 0 t 0.05 2,824.4 3.45 psi 4 hr. 17 E Rep 1. 300-1000 14 50 2 14
2 t 0.05 50,000.0 4.70 psi 4 hr. 18 F Rep 1. 300-1000 13.8 50 2 3 2
t 0.05 10,869.6 4.04 psi 4 hr. Note: D, E & F were CO.sub.2
flushed, heat sealed and stored @ 4.degree. C. for 4 days in gas
barrier packages.
[0079] Holding the samples for 4 hours did not significantly change
the kill rate of E. coli 0157. A log 0.86 reduction was recorded in
this experiment and a log 0.47 reduction was recorded on the
experiment on the 16.sup.th. However, storing the samples in about
100% substantially carbon dioxide at about 4.degree. C. for 4 days
did give a further log 2.83 kill. Therefore the combined effect of
treatment and storage gave an encouraging log 3.69 kill. The meat
on removal from the reactor after 4 hours was brown, but it bloomed
within 10 minutes.
CONCLUSION
[0080] The data from this work has demonstrated that the treatment
of meat with liquid carbon dioxide in the sub critical range alone
had no practical significance in the destruction of E. coli 0157 on
meat surfaces. However, in combination with post treatment storage
in about 100% carbon dioxide, the destruction appears to be
greater. The treatment storage can range from greater than 4 hours,
2 days, 4 days, and may be continued up to 20 days or even greater.
A benefit of the process is that the surface appearance of the meat
was unaffected by the process.
Treatment with Super-Critical Carbon Dioxide
EXPERIMENT 4
[0081] The above experiments used the most exacting conditions
available given the reactor equipment. The survival of natural
microflora of meat when treated with carbon dioxide in the super
critical range was also investigated.
[0082] In the Dairy Science chemistry research lab in Call Hall
(KSU), equipment is available to achieve temperatures and pressures
above the critical point of carbon dioxide (a Pepmaster GA made by
the Suprex Corp.). This device is mainly used for lipid extraction
from natural materials prior to further analysis.
[0083] The tests were undertaken to determine the efficacy of
supercritical carbon dioxide using laboratory equipment shown
schematically in FIGS. 8 and 9.
[0084] The sample cells 2 in parallel hold about 4 gr of sample
which is sufficient to do microbial analysis and the equipment
could control pressure up to about 7500 psig, temperature (above
ambient), and time. Introduction of E. coli 0157 meat into the lab
was not possible. Un-inoculated meat was placed at about 3000 psig
and about 36.degree. C. for about 5 minutes and tested for the
reduction of bacterial counts.
[0085] The data is provided in TABLES 4 and 5 below. In TABLE 4 an
approximate 1 log bacteria reduction is indicated in lines 21B when
compared with the Control in line 19 and also an approximate 1 log
bacteria reduction is indicated in lines 22C and 23D when compared
with the Control in line 19. In TABLE 5 an approximate 2 log
bacteria reduction is indicated in line 26B when compared with the
Control in line 24. The treatment to Replicates shown in lines 25A
and 26B is described in the first line above the tabulated data,
wherein the replicates were exposed to supercritical phase carbon
dioxide at 3000 psi atmosphere and 36.degree. C.
Experiment 4
[0086] Meat Normal Flora Exposed to CO.sub.2 in a Supercritical
Fluid Extractor (5 Min). Pepmaster GA (Suprex Corporation)
TABLE-US-00004 TABLE 4 SAMPLE Weight of Vol. of CFU in all Type of
SAMPLE # DESCRIPTION Sample Diluent Plates # plates Dilution plate
Vol CFU/g Logs 19 CTRL Non treated 2.88 10 2 97 4 t 0.05
33,680,555.6 7.53 20 A 1470 psi 5.35 10 2 28 4 t 0.05 5,233,644.9
6.72 @ 29.degree. C. 21 B 1470 psi 4.20 10 2 40 4 t 0.05
9,523,809.5 6.98 @ 29.degree. C. 22 C 3000 psi 4.43 10 2 40 4 t
0.05 9,029,345.4 6.96 @ 29.degree. C. 23 D 3000 psi 4.85 10 2 25 4
t 0.05 5,154,639.2 6.71 @ 29.degree. C.
Experiment 5
[0087] Meat Normal Flora Exposed to CO.sub.2 in a Supercritical
Fluid Extractor (5 Min). Pepmaster GA (Suprex Corporation)
TABLE-US-00005 TABLE 5 SAMPLE Weight of Vol. of CFU in all Type of
SAMPLE # DESCRIPTION Sample Diluent Plates # plates Dilution plate
Vol CFU/g Logs 24 CTRL Non treated 4.50 20 2 51 4 t 0.05
22,666,666.7 7.36 25 A 3000 psi 4.00 20 2 33 2 t 0.05 165,000.00
5.22 @ 36.degree. C. 26 B 3000 psi 3.80 20 2 133 2 t 0.05 700,000.0
5.85 @ 36.degree. C.
[0088] The control before testing contained log 7.36 bacteria and
after the test a log 5.53 bacteria. Therefore, there was a log 1.83
reduction. There was an approximate log 0.5 kill with liquid carbon
dioxide and a log 1.83 kill with carbon dioxide in the
supercritical region.
[0089] While illustrative embodiments have been illustrated and
described, it will be appreciated that various changes can be made
therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention.
* * * * *