Maintaining product quality, safety, and shelf life is more crucial—and challenging—than ever before. As consumer demand shifts towards clean-label products and stringent regulatory requirements tighten, food processors must adopt innovative technologies and approaches to ensure their products remain competitive in the market. JBT’s Research & Technology Centers (RTCs) offer specialized solutions to help you navigate these food preservation challenges effectively. By leveraging our advanced preservation technologies and expert support, you can optimize your processes, extend product shelf life, and ensure the highest standards of safety and quality.
Advanced Food Preservation Technologies Tailored to Your Needs
JBT’s network of RTCs is equipped with state-of-the-art preservation technologies, designed to support your product development and processing challenges. Our centers in Madera, CA and Erlander, KY are focused on two key preservation technologies—thermal processing through retorts, rotary and hydrostatic sterilization systems, and High-Pressure Processing (HPP). These technologies are vital for ensuring your products not only meet but exceed industry standards for quality, safety, and shelf life.
Thermal Processing at Madera, California
The Madera RTC is a hub of expertise for thermal processing technologies – Processing Authority services recognized by FDA, USDA and CA almond board. The center offers thermal process services for both In-Container and In-Flow sterilization systems. These methods are essential for producing a variety of shelf stable foods such as ready-to-drink beverages, ready-to eat meals, dairy products, beans, soups, pet food and more. Our Sterilization systems help maintain the safety and quality of your products while extending their shelf life, making them critical for both traditional and innovative food processing operations.
- Scheduling thermal processes: With our pilot retort and rotary equipment such as multi-purpose lab sterilizer, Steritort and SuperAgi, we can simulate any type of process and establish the thermal processes for various product & container combinations. Batch retort simulations include stationary water spray, agitating water spray, linear agitation, and saturated steam. Also, simulation for 58”, 84” and 112” diameter continuous rotary cooker and coolers.
- Optimize Processing Times: Our advanced retort systems are engineered to achieve consistent and thorough temperature distribution, ensuring even cooking and sterilization of your products. By optimizing thermal processes, you can reduce overall processing times while maintaining product integrity. We can help achieve reduced cycle times per batch through these process optimizations. This process is vital to eliminating harmful microorganisms without compromising the texture, flavor, or nutritional value of your food, and contributes to a more sustainable and efficient operation.
- Custom Solutions: At JBT, we recognize that each product has unique processing requirements. Our experts work closely with you to develop and test customized retort and rotary processing solutions tailored to your specific needs. Whether you are looking to optimize existing processes or develop new ones, we provide the support and expertise to ensure your success.
- Aseptic Processing and Validation Services: JBT provides advanced worldwide process authority and validation services in support of aseptic processing and filling technologies. Our services include compliance and regulatory audits, aseptic thermal process design, validation of low-acid aseptic filler technologies, and complete FDA product filing support. Additional support includes troubleshooting, contamination audits, aseptic processing training (from management to operators), and addressing thermal process deviations.
High-Pressure Processing (HPP) at Erlanger, Kentucky
High-Pressure Processing (HPP) is rapidly becoming a preferred method for food preservation, particularly for clean-label products that demand minimal use of preservatives and chemicals. At the Erlanger RTC, JBT Avure’s HPP Food Science and Laboratory Services focus on helping you harness the full potential of HPP technology to extend shelf life, enhance food safety, and meet consumer expectations for fresh-tasting, high-quality products.
- Product and Packaging Compatibility Testing: Ensuring that both your products and packaging materials are compatible with HPP is a critical step in the preservation process. Our comprehensive testing services verify that your products can withstand the high pressures of HPP without compromising quality, texture, or safety. We also evaluate and recommend suitable packaging solutions to protect your products during high-pressure treatment, ensuring they reach the market in perfect condition.
- Pathogen Inactivation Studies: One of the primary benefits of HPP is its ability to inactivate harmful pathogens, such as listeria, salmonella, and E. coli, without the need for heat or chemical preservatives. Our pathogen challenge studies validate the effectiveness of HPP in making your products safe for consumption, giving you and your consumers peace of mind.
- Extensive Product Development Services: Beyond testing, our Avure Food Lab offers comprehensive product development services, helping you refine your product formulations, optimize processing parameters, and conduct microbiological validation studies. These services ensure that your HPP-treated products not only meet safety and quality standards but also deliver the taste and texture consumers expect.
JBT Training Programs at Our RTCs
In addition to our advanced processing technologies, JBT offers comprehensive training programs at our Research & Technology Centers, designed to equip your team with the knowledge and skills necessary to optimize operations and maintain the highest standards of food safety and quality. Our training covers key areas such as aseptic processing, High-Pressure Processing (HPP), and thermal processing, ensuring your team is well-prepared to handle the complexities of modern food preservation and production. To explore our current scheduled courses and register, click here.
The JBT Advantage: Expertise, Innovation, and Global Reach
At JBT, we are more than just a technology provider—we are your partner in overcoming food processing challenges. Our Research & Technology Centers are staffed with industry-leading experts who are committed to helping you achieve excellence in food preservation. Whether you are dealing with complex product formulations, strict regulatory requirements, or demanding production timelines, we provide the guidance and support you need to succeed.
We work closely with you to understand your unique challenges and develop tailored solutions that address your specific needs. Our collaborative approach ensures that you benefit from the latest advancements in preservation technology, backed by our deep industry knowledge. Our RTCs are equipped with state-of-the-art processing equipment, allowing you to test, refine, and optimize your preservation processes before scaling up to full production. This reduces risk and helps you bring high-quality, safe products to market faster. With RTCs strategically located across North America and around the world, JBT offers localized support and specialized expertise wherever you are. Our global network ensures that you have access to cutting-edge solutions and industry-leading support, no matter where your operations are based.