The PCS, D-FENS, and D-FEND_ALL: Novel Chlorine Dioxide Technologies for Military Applications in Fresh Produce Safety

Introduction: With increased consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables, recent outbreaks of Listeria monocytogenes in cantaloupe, Escherichia coli in sprouts, and Salmonella spp in peanuts demonstrate the public’s growing concern relating to fresh produce safety. We present an ensemble of novel chlorine dioxide technologies developed by Army researchers as their progression from exciting laboratory discoveries to commercialization, with particular emphasis on ensuring fresh produce safety, while retaining food quality and acceptance.

Purpose: Chlorine dioxide is a broad-based biocide. The objective here is to adapt the following novel chlorine dioxide technologies for food safety.

a)      “Novel Chemical Combination” – novel effector chemistry system.

b)      “Portable Chemical Sterilizer” - a revolutionary, energy-independent, waterless medical sterilization device for surgical instruments or fresh produce commodities.

c)      “Disinfectant-sprayer for Foods and ENvironmentally-friendly Sanitation (D-FENS)” - for hard surface sanitization.

d)     “Disinfectant for Environmentally-friendly Decontamination, All Purpose (D-FEND_ALL)” – to be submitted and licensed to food industry in 2012 for immediate commercial use in microbreweries, water treatment, fresh produce safety, dairy processing plants, and possibly household appliances.

Methods: The PCS was tested to inactivate L. monocytogenes, E. coli, and bacterial spores from whole tomatoes, and to inactivate browning enzymes in sliced apples. D-FENS was tested on Staphylococcus aureus on surfaces, and D-FEND_ALL was tested on spores of Bacillus anthracis on Army textile materials. Survivors were recovered with standard serial dilution and plate-counting enumeration techniques.

Results: In all cases, the technologies eliminated pathogens without harming surface materials or compromising the appearance of the produce.

Significance: These chlorine dioxide technologies provide technological advantages for the military and consumer markets concerned with fresh produce safety. In addition to providing safe, fresh, wholesome products, these are “green” technologies that protect the environment from carcinogens and decrease landfill wastes, fossil fuel usage, and carbon footprint.