I food gases are essential components in the food industry, used to improve the preservation, quality and safety of the food products we consume on a daily basis.
These substances, which include carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen (N2) and oxygen (O2), are used in various applications for extend the shelf-life of foods and maintain their organoleptic characteristics.
Gases such as nitrogen, carbon dioxide, oxygen and argon are just some of the main gases used in the food industry, each with its own specific applications.
CO2 E290, in particular, is widely used for carbonating drinks and as a preserving agent.
The applications of gases in the food industry are different and are important at various stages of the production process, from processing to packaging and transport.
Food mixtures are combinations of gases designed to create protective environments around foodstuffs, prolonging freshness and quality. These mixtures, which can include CO2, nitrogen and oxygen, play specific roles: CO2 inhibits the growth of bacteria and moulds, nitrogen prevents oxidation by replacing oxygen, and oxygen helps maintain the red colour of meat.
These mixtures are essential for the modified atmosphere packaging (MAP)a technique that replaces air in packaging with selected gases to extend shelf-life and preserve the organoleptic qualities of food. MAP is applicable to a wide range of products, including meat, fish, cheese, bakery products and ready meals. Its effectiveness depends on the composition of the gas mixture, product characteristics and storage conditions.
The adoption of MAP not only extends the shelf life, but also reduces food waste and the use of chemical preservativesresponding to growing consumer demands for high quality and sustainable food products.
La CO2 E290 is one of the food gases most used, particularly appreciated for its ability to carbonating drinksgiving them their typical effervescence. This process not only enhances the taste and sensation on the palate, but also contributes to the preservation of drinks by inhibiting microbial growth. Carbonation is essential for carbonated soft drinks, beer and sparkling waterwhere CO2 not only creates bubbles, but also enriches the drinking experience.
In addition to carbonation, the CO2 E290 serves as preservative for a wide range of foods. Its ability to lower pH and create an unfavourable environment for microorganisms makes it ideal for extending the shelf-life of fresh and packaged products. Often combined with other gases, CO2 is therefore used to create protective atmospheres that preserve the freshness and quality of food.
Il dry ice, a solid form of CO2, is essential for the temperature-controlled transport of perishable products. Its ability to sublimate directly from solid to gas without leaving liquid residue makes it ideal for keeping products fresh during distribution. It is therefore widely used in the logistics sector to ensure that food, pharmaceutical and biological products remain at optimal temperatures during transport.
The dry ice for foodstuffs is used for rapid cooling as well as for the scenic presentation of dishes and cocktails. Its ability to maintain extremely low temperatures also makes it useful for the long-term storage of sensitive foods. It should also be mentioned that liquid nitrogen and carbonic snow are used in the production of ice cream and frozen desserts, where rapid cooling is essential to achieve the desired consistency.
As mentioned earlier, one of the main advantages of the food gases is their ability to prolong the shelf-life of products.
By creating protective atmospheres, these gases reduce oxidation and inhibit microbial growthkeeping food fresh for longer. This is especially crucial for fresh produce, which would otherwise have a limited shelf life.
In addition to this, however, there are further benefits to consider.
Gases used in food play a key role in maintaining the quality of edible products, preserving flavour, colour and texture. This is especially important for products such as meat and fish, where visual appearance and freshness are crucial for consumers. The use of food gases ensures that products maintain their integrity, guaranteeing consumers high quality food.
The use of food gases is essential for food safety, as it reduces the risk of microbial contamination. This is essential to ensure that products are safe for consumption and for minimise food waste. They help maintain a sterile environment, reducing the need for chemical preservatives and improving overall food safety.
I food gases offer numerous advantages and, thanks to continuous innovation, their environmental impact is becoming increasingly manageable. The industry is adopting sustainable solutions, such as the use of recycled CO2, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, the exploration of biogenic gases, derived from renewable sources, is paving the way for a significantly reduced environmental impact.
Innovations in the sector are leading to ecological solutionssuch as the adoption of carbon capture technologies. These developments not only reduce environmental impact, but also promote more sustainable practices.
In DKRwe are dedicated to the development of sustainable solutions to reduce environmental impact and promote a greener future, including in the area of food gases. Our activity also extends to water houses, to the distributors for HO.RE.CA. and vending machines, covering all phases of design, construction, installation, maintenance and service. Our all-round know-how applies to every installation, regardless of size.
Over the years, we have achieved numerous awards and certifications which comply with the highest international standards: ISO 9001 for corporate quality, ISO 22000 for food safety, ISO 14001 for environmental impact, ISO 45001 for occupational health and safety and EC Reg. 303/2008 for fluorinated greenhouse gases.
These awards testify to our commitment to sustainability and innovation.
Contact us for more information about our business and production, we will respond promptly.
Via Grigna, 60 - 20027 Rescaldina (MI) - ITALY
Tel. +39 0331 54 94 67 - Fax +39 0331 54 49 01
info@dkr.it - dkr@pec.it
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