Research looks for organic-friendly wash solution

03/06/2013 07:19:00 AM
Tom Karst

If successful, research could also lead to changes in processing conventional produce, she said.

The food industry is looking for label-friendly alternatives to traditional antimicrobials, she said.

“If you can say something is a cinnamon extract versus sodium benzoate, (consumers) know what cinnamon is,” Critzer said. “End game, we’re trying to find a couple of good solutions that fit the bill for organic growers.”

Researchers plan to consult with a group of organic produce growers at least every six months about the progress of their work, Critzer said.

Researchers will also share findings through Web seminars and other media, according to the release.

Other researchers on the project are:

• P. Michael Davidson, UT professor of food microbiology;

• David Lockwood, UTennessee professor and extension specialist in fruit and nut crops;

• Annette Wszelaki, UT assistant professor and commercial vegetable extension specialist;

• Jonathan Baros, NCSU farm and agribusiness management;

• Jeanine Davis, NCSU associate professor and extension specialist in organic crops;

• MaryAnne Drake, NCSUniversity professor in sensory analysis and flavor chemistry; and

• Diane Ducharme, GAPs program coordinator and extension associate in horticulture and food safety at NCSU.

Comments (3) Leave a comment 

This is an example of wasted taxpayer money. If Chlorine is a problem, try using Hydrogen Peroxide. To me, the issue is not "Is it sustainable?" It is "Does it work?"
Spending millions of dollars on research is a waste when there are already solutions out there.

Ozone is already a proven technology, no residues and obviously accepted in organic!!!!!

What a waste. There are already so many available antimicrobials for organic produce
washing. They talk about sustainability, but they must not mean for your bank account
balance. Most of the essential oils I see for sale are about $10 for less than a liquid
ounce.