A novel method to control pathogens in food and healthcare environments

Advanced Oxidation Technology (AOT) is an oxidative process that utilizes combination of vapor hydrogen peroxide, ultraviolet light and ozone to produce oxidative species that cause microbicidal effect which can be directly applied to surfaces and environments to reduce microbial loads.  The objective of this research was to evaluate the efficacy of advanced oxidation technology against microorganisms that contaminate food processing areas and medical environments.

Listeria monocytogenes, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Candida albicans, and Escherichia coli were tested in this study. Sterile stainless steel coupons were used as test surfaces that were surface inoculated with 7-8 log CFU/ml of the microorganisms and then treated with advanced oxidation technology based units inside an enclosed chamber equipped for varying exposure times up to 24 h. Test samples were evaluated at specific intervals to determine reductions in microbial population over time in comparison to controls in a non-treated chamber.

The results showed reduction in pathogens tested with the application of advanced oxidation treatment. Test samples with L. monocytogenes when exposed to AOT unit with direct exposure to UV reduced (P < 0.05) by 4.37 log cfu/coupon after 15 min. MRSA, E.coli, and C. albicans, being environmental contaminants, exposed over an extended period of 24 hours reduced by an overall 99%, 94%, and greater than 90%, respectively. The testing indicates the efficacy of advanced oxidation technology to control pathogens on surfaces and can be used as an effective intervention in food processing and medical facilities for contamination control.