Introduction to hot water spray sterilization

**Hot Water Spray Sterilization for Food Preservation**

Hot water spray sterilization is a traditional and effective method for extending the shelf life of food products. It operates on the principle that heating microbial cells to specific temperatures denatures their physiologically active substances, rendering them inactive and leading to their death.

### **Key Features:**

1. **Spray Sterilizer:**

- Utilizes nozzles to spray hot water in multiple directions.

- Targets bottle caps, sterilizing both inner and outer surfaces.

- Caps move through a channel while being sprayed from above and below.

2. **Sterilization Parameters:**

- **Temperature:** Varies based on cap material.

- Metal caps: Can exceed 85°C with reduced spraying time.

- Plastic caps: Maintained at approximately 85°C.

- **Duration:** Depends on the sterilization temperature; higher temperatures require shorter times.

3. **Post-Sterilization:**

- Caps are sprayed with sterile air for drying after the process.

### **Applications:**

- Suitable for high-temperature filled tea, juice beverages, and mineral water bottle caps.

This method ensures effective sterilization while accommodating different cap materials and sterilization requirements.