Disinfectant gains EPA approval for killing foodborne pathogens in processing plants
The firm conducted tests at an EPA-approved laboratory and will now begin amending its Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) master label claims.
IET completed a series of tests on its Excelyte disinfecting solution at an independent EPA approved laboratory.
Excelyte is a powerful disinfectant made from natural elements including hypochlorous acid which can be sprayed onto food processing surfaces to disinfect them.
Global opportunities
The firm said it is in the process of expanding production through the US and looking at opportunities overseas.
Tim Shields, director of marketing and sales, told FoodProductionDaily.com it was a broad specification disinfectant and has many applications.
“Wherever it is required it can replace harsh and hazardous chemicals that are used today and it is more environmentally friendly.
“There are only five laboratories in the US, so it is passed onto a third party platform who perform the tests and if it passes the results are sent to the EPA for review, and if they agree you can amend the label so it is a thorough process.
“We sought the regulation because we knew it worked and there is science out there proving it but to the market regulatory approval gives you credibility on what you are saying,” he said.
“The solution will serve the market well, it is safe and has near neutral PH with it being made up of hypochlorous acid and the rest is basically water. It is more effective than ammonia-type products and there is less corrosion of equipment.”
Strains of E.coli
When asked if it would kill the non-0157:H7 shiga toxin producing E.coli (STEC) pathogens, he added: “We haven’t tested for non O157:H7 E.coli strains but I feel safe to say it would work.”
David LaVance, chairman, president and chief executive officer, said: "Listeria and E.coli continue to be prevalent pathogens causing food poisoning in humans and these kill claims will be important additions to our EPA master label as we pursue opportunities for Excelyte in the food processing market.
“These test results are an important step in our continuing efforts to market Excelyte as an effective, non-toxic disinfecting solution."
