BIO-SECURITY: Pathogens form biofilm matrix on wet food handling equipment such as transport belts. Once the sticky polysaccharide film is formed, the pathogens within the film are protected and proliferate rapidly. A synergistic relationship is formed between the various pathogens living in biofilm. Once formed, biofilms breakdown nutrients in water, field soils, sugars, and food product residues to form a strong glue-like matrix. Bacteria in the matrix are able to endure challenging conditions (even cleaners) and support each other through breakdown of various nutrients maintaining the polysaccharide structure.
Listeria monocytogenes is a hardy pathogen adaptable to cold, wet environments. Listeria bacteria reproduce and are incorporated into biofilms on stainless steel, plastic, and polycarbonate , and other food contact surfaces. Listeria is infectious to humans. Protocols for improving food safety have been developed and recognized by the Food Safety Modernization Act "FSMA".
CH2O, Inc. has formed an alliance with BriteBelt to help minimize biofilms that harbor pathogens, which are destructive to food products and have potential to infect people. CH2O, Inc. produces proprietary cleaners used in conjunction with the BriteBelt scrubbing system. To determine if a surface is clean or infected ATP tests are preformed to rapidly detect Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP), which is found in all living organisms including biofilms and their infectious inhabitants. Shown in the Page Turner below are examples of the efficacy achieved when using CH2O, Inc. products with the BriteBelt scrubber technology. Typical ATP reductions from 97.2% to 99.89% indicate a much cleaner food product surface for food product transport.
