Fish is a healthy and delicious source of protein, but it is also a delicate and easily contaminated food.
Pathogenic microorganisms can thrive on the surface of oily fish and shellfish, potentially dangerous to human health.
To ensure the safety of fish, it is essential to use effective biocides that can kill these microorganisms without leaving toxic by-products.
Traditionally, chlorine has been the most commonly used biocide for fish processing plants. However, concerns over toxic chlorinated by-products in contact with fish have led to the disapproval of the use of high concentrations of chlorine and other biocides in the latest revisions of Codex Alimentarius. This has led to the adoption of an alternative biocide, Chlorine Dioxide, which has proven to be a safer and more effective alternative.
Advantages of Chlorine Dioxide (ClO2)
Unlike chlorine, low residuals of potable water-grade Chlorine Dioxide are enough to kill pathogenic microorganisms on the surface of oily fish and shellfish effectively without leaving toxic chlorinated by-products. The broad spectrum action of Chlorine Dioxide and its ability to penetrate slime and oily layers makes it the ideal biocide for use in washing, filleting, and ice-making applications in fish processing plants.
The low dose rates of Chlorine Dioxide required make it suitable for use with sensitive produce such as salmon, where other biocides can bleach the carcass. Chlorine Dioxide can be used at potable water levels for water in direct contact with fish, making it safe for human consumption.
Read our case study – Countering the Listeria threat in smoked salmon production.
Bravo MX Chlorine Dioxide Dosing System
Scotmas’ Bravo MX Chlorine Dioxide dosing systems can be configured for multiple-point dosing throughout the processing plant. They can be integrated with control systems to automatically measure and control biocides’ residual, ensuring that enough – and no more – is applied to ensure complete protection from dangerous bacteria. This provides the fish’s safety and helps reduce costs by minimising the use of biocides.
Benefits of Using Chlorine Dioxide in Fish Processing Plants
Chlorine Dioxide in fish processing plants is a safer and more effective alternative to traditional biocides.
Its ability to kill pathogenic microorganisms without leaving toxic by-products makes it ideal for washing, filleting, and ice-making applications. Its low dose rates make it suitable for use with sensitive produce such as salmon, while its potable water-grade levels make it safe for human consumption.
With the help of systems like the Bravo MX, fish processing plants can ensure the safety and quality of their products while reducing costs and minimising the use of biocides.
If you’re looking for the best Chlorine Dioxide-based technology solutions, look no further than Scotmas. Our expert team and cutting-edge technology are leading the way in this field. Don’t hesitate to contact Scotmas today on +44 (0)1573 226901 or email enquiries@scotmas.com to learn more about how we can help meet your needs.
