Novel and emerging technologies used by the U.S. food processing industry

Abstract

The main purpose of this research was to investigate the extent of novel non-thermal food processing technologies usage in the United States. A survey was conducted to food experts to study the major reasons for using novel technologies, the limitations for not implementing specific technologies, and the main drivers for innovation of non-thermal food processing technologies. The survey study focused on the high-pressure processing, pulsed electric field, pulsed light, irradiation, ultrasound, oscillating magnetic fields, and cold atmospheric plasma technologies. High pressure processing (35.6%) was the most commonly used non-thermal food processing technologies, followed by pulsed electric field (20%). Rapidly increasing novel technologies included cold atmospheric plasma (14.1%) and oscillating magnetic fields (14.1%). More than 70% of the respondents indicated that the main factor for choosing non-thermal food processing technology was better nutrient and sensory properties. High investment (41%) was the major limitation for implementing non-thermal food processing technologies. The results indicated the main drivers for innovation were equipment manufacturers (43.8%) and government research (42.3%). The results emphasized the need for new and improved innovative, non-thermal technologies to provide a balance between safety and minimal processing. Industrial relevanceThis research provides industry with an overview of perceptions food managers, scientists and technologists of novel non-thermal food processing technologies. This research investigated factors that food companies use to implement particular food processing technologies and the limitations prohibit them from using such technologies. There are technologies which are still under development and are currently being conducted to extend the shelf life of certain foods while preserving freshness and natural nutrients. This study investigated technologies currently being used, ones still under development, and the main drivers for innovation of these technologies within the United States.