UV light for processing foods

Ultraviolet light (UV) light holds considerable promise in food processing as an alternative to traditional thermal processing. Its applications include pasteurization of juices, post lethality treatment for meats, treatment of food contact surfaces and to extend the shelf-life of fresh produce. This paper will review published studies and commercial applications that utilize UV treatment for solid and liquid foods. Designs of UV reactors that were tested in the author's lab for juice and apple cider treatment are discussed. Future research needed to extend the range of UV light applications in food processing industry is presented.