Antimicrobial Solutions for safe food processing
Food and Beverage
Food and beverage processors—including beverage manufacturers, dairies, meat and poultry processors, and aquaculture farms—are required to meet strict hygiene standards, ensure aseptic packaging, and maintain product shelf life. Evonik’s Active Oxygens, including peracetic acid and hydrogen peroxide, support hygiene management and microbial control in key applications such as aquaculture, meat and poultry processing, aseptic packaging, fruit and vegetable processing, and other areas of food production.
aquaculture
With global demand for fish and seafood on the rise, sustainable aquaculture solutions are more important than ever. We offer targeted solutions based on hydrogen peroxide and peracetic acid to support water quality management and pathogen control in aquaculture environments. These oxidants are also used for the disinfection of aquaculture processing equipment, helping maintain hygiene standards throughout the production cycle.
Aseptic packaging
Hydrogen peroxide and peracetic acid are widely used in aseptic packaging to sanitize closure systems and sterilize cartons and PET bottles through bath, spray, or steam applications. These oxidants help extend the shelf life of beverages by enabling cold sterilization—without the need for thermal treatment or added preservatives.
Food Fiber Bleaching
Hydrogen peroxide and peracetic acid are used in food fiber bleaching to support safe and sustainable processing. These oxidants help adjust color and improve the appearance of food ingredients such as starches, natural sugars, oils, and proteins. Their chemical properties and biodegradability make them suitable for applications aligned with modern food production standards and consumer expectations.
Fruit and vegetable processing
In fruit and vegetable processing, microbial control and hygiene are essential to maintain product quality and meet regulatory standards. Hydrogen peroxide and peracetic acid—offer effective solutions for disinfecting equipment and contact surfaces. Peracetic acid helps combat pathogens such as Staphylococcus, E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria, while hydrogen peroxide supports cold sterilization and breaks down into environmentally compatible byproducts. Together, these oxidants contribute to clean-label production and sustainable food processing.
Poultry Processing
Peracetic acid is a highly effective antimicrobial agent widely used in poultry processing to enhance food safety and hygiene. It serves as an acidifier and processing aid in chillers, aftercoolers, and online reprocessing systems, helping to reduce contamination by pathogenic bacteria. In addition to its direct application on carcasses, parts, and finished products, peracetic acid is also suitable for disinfecting equipment and surfaces throughout the production line.
Red meat processing
Peracetic acid is a trusted antimicrobial agent in red meat processing, helping to reduce contamination by E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria monocytogenes—key contributors to spoilage and foodborne illness. It can be applied directly to carcasses, organs, and cuts, supporting hygiene and shelf-life extension. Its strong oxidizing properties also make it suitable for disinfecting equipment and surfaces, ensuring consistent microbial control throughout the production line.
