Mini pasteurizer

Types of mini pasteurizers

The mini pasteurizer is the small-scale pasteurization equipment. Generally, it can be divided into the following types.

• Container/Batch Pasteurizer

  It heats and cools products in the same vessel. Heating usually occurs using a hot water jacket or a hot water coil within the pasteurizer. After heating, the product is cooled in the same vessel by circulating cool water through the jacket or coil.

  The container/batch pasteurizers are used in various industries, including dairy, juice, soup, and liquid food processing. They are suitable for small-scale production, premium product fabrication, and product testing and development.

• Mini Tunnel Pasteurizer

  It is an effective technique for pasteurizing packed or containerized liquids, viscous products, and solid products with a liquid medium. This method offers a continuous pasteurization process, high efficiency, low water consumption, and minimal product loss.

  The mini tunnel pasteurizers are typically composed of three main sections: the heating section, the cooling section, and the water recycling tank. In the heating section, the cold products are first heated up to the required temperature for pasteurization. Then, in the cooling section, the products are cooled down to ambient temperature. Finally, the water recycling tank collects the cooling water, and a pump circulates it back to the heating section.

• Mini Plate Pasteurizer

  The mini plate pasteurizers consist of large heat transfer areas formed by enclosed plates. These plates are typically arranged in large stacks, creating numerous channels through which the product flows. The heating medium flows through the channels adjacent to the product flow channels, transferring the heat to the product and raising its temperature to the required level for pasteurization.

  Mini plate pasteurizers are suitable for handling small-scale production efficiently. They occupy less space and provide greater flexibility for dairy processors.

Specifications and maintenance of mini pasteurizers

Specifications

• Material: A food-grade stainless steel, such as 304 or 316, is usually used to make mini pasteurizers. These materials meet food safety standards and allow for clean, hygienic food processing.
• Capacity: Mini pasteurizers typically process liquids in liters or gallons. The exact capacity varies depending on the model, but it generally ranges from 5 liters to 500 liters at a time. Equipment with larger capacities is available for industrial use, while smaller, portable versions are better for domestic use.
• Temperature control: Modern pasteurizers are often equipped with digital temperature controls and displays, allowing precise temperature adjustment. The heating temperature usually varies from 60 degrees to 85 degrees Celsius, depending on the specific type and purpose of the mini pasteurizer.
• Energy source: Mini pasteurizers can use different energy sources, such as electricity, gas, or steam, for heating. The specific energy source depends on the design and application of the pasteurizer.

Maintenance

• Clean: Clean the equipment thoroughly after each use to remove any residue or bacteria. Use a mild detergent and warm water to clean the pasteurizer's interior, pipelines, and accessories. Rinse them thoroughly and ensure no detergent residue remains.
• Regularly replace spare parts: Regularly check the pasteurizer's spare parts, such as seals, valves, temperature sensors, etc. Replace them if damaged or worn to ensure proper functioning and prevent leaks or errors.
• Check the refrigeration system: If the mini pasteurizer has a refrigeration system, ensure the refrigerant level is adequate and inspect the compressor and fan for proper operation. Clean any dust or debris on the refrigerator's heat dissipation surface to prevent overheating.

Uses of mini pasteurizers

The uses of mini pasteurizers are varied, especially with the current trends of eating healthy foods with no preservatives. Dairy product manufacturers use the machine to increase the shelf life of milk and other dairy products without harming the nutritional value. The device helps keep the natural tastes and flavors of fruits intact while eliminating pathogens.

Small scale meat and juice manufacturers also benefit from the mini pasteurizer's ability to kill harmful bacteria and pathogens. Manufacturers create safe and high-quality products for consumption. Restaurants and catering services consider installing mini pasteurizers in their kitchens. The devices allow chefs to pasteurize various types of food and beverages for exceptional flavor and enhanced safety.

Some manufacturers customize pasteurizers to meet specific needs or produce specialty products. For example, some systems can be designed for the pasteurization of specific types of juices, such as apple or citrus juices, or for the processing of particular dairy products, such as cheese or yogurt. The versatility of mini pasteurizers also allows for the incorporation of additional treatment options like homogenization, which improves the texture and mouthfeel of dairy products and juices.

Wineries use mini pasteurizers to process fruit juices and wines. The machine helps in controlling fermentation and ensuring the final product is safe for consumption.

Food processors with mini pasteurizers can produce value-added foods and beverages like yogurt, flavored milk, fruit smoothies, and sauces. Such products usually have high demand because they are convenient for busy consumers who do not have time to make the products from scratch.

How to choose mini pasteurizers

When choosing a mini pasteurizer for the specific needs, it is crucial to consider a few factors to ensure that the chosen equipment will be suitable for the business.

• Capacity

  Mini pasteurizers are available in various capacities, ranging from a few liters per hour to several hundred liters per hour. When selecting a mini pasteurizer, it is essential to consider the required capacity. Purchasing a machine with a higher capacity than needed can lead to unnecessary operating costs and higher energy consumption.

• PQ (Product flow rate

  The product flow rate per hour is the amount of product that can be processed in one hour. The flow rate varies for different mini pasteurizers. One should check whether the machine's product flow rate meets the specific needs and requirements.

• Temperature control

  Mini pasteurizers with accurate temperature control and monitoring systems are available to ensure precise pasteurization. It's better to choose the pasteurizer with advanced temperature control capabilities. These features may include digital displays, programmable set points, and data logging.

• Heating method

  Mini pasteurizers are available with different heating methods, including electrical heaters, steam coils, and heat exchangers. An electrical heater is highly energy-efficient, while a steam coil can heat the product faster. By considering the advantages and disadvantages of each heating method, business buyers can select the one that suits their specific requirements.

• Hygienic design

  An important factor in choosing a mini pasteurizer is its hygienic design. The machine should have smooth, easy-to-clean surfaces and minimal crevices and cavities because proper hygiene and sanitation are essential for food processing.

• Compliance with regulations

  Business buyers will need to ensure that the selected mini pasteurizer complies with the relevant food safety regulations and standards. Doing this will ensure that the equipment meets the required safety and quality standards.

Mini pasteurizer FAQ

Q1: What is the purpose of mini pasteurizer in food processing?

A1: The main purpose of a mini pasteurizer is to enhance the safety of food products, prolong shelf life, and preserve the quality of beverages and liquid food items.

Q2: What are the advantages of mini pasteurizers?

A2: Mini pasteurizers offer several advantages, including improved food safety, preservation of nutritional value and flavor, compact size, energy efficiency, and ease of use.

Q3: Can mini pasteurizer machines be used on any type of liquid?

A3: While mini pasteurizers are designed to pasteurize various liquids, some liquids may require special consideration or methods when pasteurizing.

Q4: Can people use mini pasteurizer at home?

A4: Home pasteurizers are available for home use; however, they are not necessary if the household water is safe.