ForeSights: Microwave-Assisted Thermal Sterilization Food Processing Technology - A leap forward in food processing technology

ForeSights: Microwave-Assisted Thermal Sterilization Food Processing Technology - A leap forward in food processing technology

Summary

Microwave-assisted thermal sterilization (MATS) is a new food processing technology that uses a combination of pressurized hot water and microwave technology to quickly eliminate pathogens and allow packaged food to be stored at room temperature for up to a year.

Microwave-assisted thermal sterilization (MATS) uses long-wavelength microwave energy together with heat and water pressure to sterilize packaged food in a fraction of the time than is normally required for either method used separately. Food quality and nutrients are retained and food may be stored at room temperature for an extended period.

Scope

• MATS technology can help produce clean-label packaged foods that may be stored without refrigeration for up to one year.


• Since the sterilization process for MATS is much shorter than the conventional retort process, fewer nutrients are destroyed, and the need for food additives, preservatives, and excess sodium is reduced or eliminated.


• Consumer demand for high-quality, fresh prepared foods is growing as consumers gravitate from "center store" packaged foods to fresh, chilled, or frozen foods seen as higher in quality.


• High interest in convenient, fresh food solutions like direct-to-consumer meal kits from companies like Blue Apron, Plated, and HelloFresh suggests that MATS innovation could be disruptive.


• Food brands can use MATS to reduce or eliminate the need for chilled or frozen food distribution, removing a huge cost driver.


• MATS-made dishes can reduce the food waste that is often an issue with fresh, perishable foods and can also cut packaging waste for direct-to-consumer meal kit offerings.

Reasons to Buy

• Reduce the risk of failure by learning from brands/products that have under-performed: failed innovation can severely impact profit and reputation.


• Understand the relevant consumer trends and attitudes that drive and support innovation success so you can tap into what is really impacting the industry.


• Gain a broader appreciation of the fast-moving consumer goods industry by gaining insights from both within and outside of your sector.


• Access valuable strategic take-outs to help direct future decision-making and inform new product development.