High pressure processing (HPP) equipment to enhance research and extension activities on food safety and value-added food processing

The major goal of this project is to purchase a pilot-scale high pressure processing (HPP) unit to enhance the research and extension activities of food engineers, food scientists and meat scientists at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and their collaborators from other academic institutions, government agencies and food industry partners. The specific goals are: (1) Purchase and install a 2-liter HPP unit in the Food Processing Center (FPC) and train staff to operate and maintain the equipment; (2) Incorporate the new HPP unit into the FPC Service Center with rates for internal and external users; (3) Provide hands-on training and practical workshops experience for academic researchers and food industry professionals; (4) Deliver HPP consulting and testing services (e.g., process optimization, validation and shelf-life studies) to food industry partners; and (5) Explore emerging applications of HPP technology in the food and meat industry.