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<OL> <LI> Test ABM products for their physical properties to determine PEF processing conditions. <LI> To conduct microbiological inactivation study with a laboratory scale system and determine the PEF processing parameters that achieves 5 logs reduction to a selected pathogen of concern or its surrogate organism. <LI> To process ABM products in pilot plant PEF system and package processed products and pass-through control samples for shelf life study. <LI> To conduct shelf life studies, both at ERRC and ABM, on product quality and microbial stability.
Approach: ARS scientists will work closely with ABM to design the experiments so that the results will be statistically valid. ABM will provide test products to ARS. ARS will conduct experiments to achieve objectives 2 and 3. ARS and ABM will work jointly to accomplish objective 4. This collaboration will also provide published test data for the regulatory agencies such as FDA to obtain baseline process information related to PEF pasteurization, safety, quality and shelf life of PEF processed products. Such information is needed to further commercializing PEF process in the US market place.