Pulsed electric fields (PEF) is a non-thermal food preservation technique that uses short, high-voltage electric pulses to inactivate microorganisms. PEF disrupts microbial cell membranes, causing leakage of intracellular contents and loss of ability to grow. It can pasteurize liquids like juice and milk with less effect on quality than heat. A PEF system consists of a power supply, capacitors, switches, pulse generator, and treatment chamber. PEF is used for applications like juice extraction enhancement and microbial inactivation in fruits and liquids. It allows for extended shelf life without heat-induced quality changes.
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