JBT Marel launches steam-free revolution for sustainable pasteurization

Traditionally, steam-powered pasteurization has been a significant contributor to carbon emissions. JBT Marel's new system replaces steam with electrical energy, which when coupled with electricity provided by renewable resources, potentially results in a net zero carbon emissions rating while still maintaining pasteurization efficiency.

What’s involved?

The system features two key components: the JBT Marel Sterideal Coil Heat Exchanger and the JBT Marel Sterideal Ohmic Heater. The Coil Heat Exchanger routinely runs at a thermal regeneration efficiency of 85% but, depending on the product and environmental conditions, may reach 93%. Further, it improves uniform heat transfer efficiency by up to 30%.

The JBT Marel Sterideal Coil Heat Exchanger’s design features a compact footprint that eliminates the use of steam, allowing for precise temperature control. It is FDA-approved and ensures maximum aseptic safety with proven low operating costs. Additionally, it maintains product quality by minimizing damage to fibers and particles.

The second stage in the process is the Sterideal Ohmic Heater, a JBT Marel system which utilizes the electrical resistance of food to generate heat quickly and efficiently. The Sterideal Ohmic Heater rapidly heats at 10°C per second, preserving food color, texture, taste, and nutritional values.

This rapid heating results in shorter cooking times and minimal structural damage to the product, providing premium quality. It also ensures homogenous treatment, preventing overheating in liquid foods with large particles.

Combining technologies

By bringing together the two technologies, JBT Marel has created a solution that effectively pasteurizes juices and purees without the need for steam. 

Leveraging the high thermal regeneration efficiency of the Coil and the rapid heating power of the Ohmic Heater, the combined solution delivers both improved energy efficiency and precise temperature management while maintaining product integrity, making it ideal for the aseptic processing of most juices and purees.

Already with substantially lower operating costs than conventional pasteurizers, the combined Coil + Ohmic Pasteurizer gives customers the option to deploy renewable energy sources, such as photovoltaic solar panels, which may offset running costs and reduce the net carbon footprint to zero.