The vacuum pump appears to have found more applications in the food industry than what might meet the eye. It is used in evacuating air in plastic packages to improve the foods shelf life. Also, it is ideal in helping to isolate proteins to be used in dietary supplements and those to be used as food. Besides, the pump plays a critical role in the evaporate process. It helps to flush out water from other liquids before condensation takes place. Thus, the pump allows people working in the food industry to perform processes that would be difficult to carry out under normal atmospheric conditions. This article delves into how the vacuum pump works in food processing.
1. In packaging
The process of food packaging is complicated. It requires evacuating air out of packages before the food is packed. The vacuum pump makes it easier to do this. It helps in improving the product’s shelf life. Furthermore, the vacuum pump may also be used to remove oxygen from containers before the food is packed. This helps in limiting the growth of bacteria. Also, it stops volatile components from evaporating. So, protects the texture and flavor of foods. Notice that it also protects the food from dry air and so reduces freezer burn.
2. In isolating protein
A vacuum pump plays an important role in isolating protein to be used in dietary supplements and those to be consumed as food.
3. Flashing off water from food
Evaporation is an important process in the food sector. It helps to remove water from fluids before converting them into solids and powder. But for better results, one must make use of a vacuum pump. It helps to convert water into vapor faster. The resultant vapor is then evaporated. It leaves behind a concentrated solution which can further be evaporated into the desired product. Also, it aids in the dehydration of food before it can be stored.
Note that the evaporation and drying are energy-intensive. So the vacuum pump can be used to accelerate the process. When used, it helps to reduce the boiling point by lowering the pressure. Also, it makes it easier to process cheese whey and results in solid whey which is high in protein and nutrients.
4. Deodorisation of oil
Vegetable oils need to be deodorized to remove any undesirable compounds. The compounds include fatty acids which affect odor and flavor. Before the process is commenced, the oil must be aerated in a vacuum pump. It helps to prevent oxidation and so protect the quality of the oil. It also helps in removal of non-condensable gases. It is critical in ensuring that no bubbles are formed on the surfaces. Also, it helps to lower the heat transfer rates during the deodorization process. Once deodorization is completed it prepares the oil so that it can be subjected to the steam distillation process.
From this, it is clear that it would be difficult for the food processing industry to thrive without the vacuum pump. The technology helps in ensuring that containers are hermetically sealed and enhances the contents of shelf life. It also plays a role in the processing of food. This is important since it ensures that it meets the customers’ expectations and sets the standards. If you are in the food service industry try out Provac Vacuum.
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