US-based organic ingredients supplier Terra Ingredients (part of AgMotion) has announced that its chemical-free Microbial Reduction Process (MRP) has been third-party validated. Terra specializes in microbial reduction, with a validated 5-log kill-step on pathogens such as Listeria, Salmonella, Coliforms, and yeast and mold, to create the safest possible ready-to-eat ingredients. This optional process is ideal for higher risk ingredients to help companies ensure their consumers’ safety and satisfaction, notes Terra Ingredients.

“A recall, whether voluntary or not, is a huge negative for any brand,” says Peter Carlson, Director of Terra Ingredients, LLC. “We can significantly reduce that risk by putting those ingredients through our MRP. Brands will have increased peace-of-mind that they will not have to go through a recall.”

Terras MRP is available as an add-on process for ingredients purchased from Terra and for toll processing of customer-provided ingredients. The company’s proprietary MRP process uses controlled pressure steam sterilization to naturally eliminate pathogens while preserving the organoleptic properties – color, texture and taste – of ingredients.

“Our largest ingredient is flax, which is very high in oil content,” adds Carlson. “Oil by its nature is less stable, changeable and more subject to oxidation and rancidity. We picked this technology because it maintains the original product characteristics and is a better alternative to chemical-based or infrared kill-step solutions. Its a very advantageous system for both flaxseed and chia.”

Aside from its proprietary MRP process, the company’s product range includes top-shelf flaxseed, milled flax, fonio, chickpeas, lentils, and other pulses, grains and oilseeds. Products are pasteurized at Terras affiliate company, Stone Mill LLC, a producer and processor of wholly-integrated, US FDA Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA)-compliant ingredients.

Carlson adds that end users cannot rely upon testing raw agricultural commodities (RAC) for pathogens, as testing has provided a false sense of security for brands. “Youre looking for that needle in the haystack and just because you dont find it, doesnt mean it isnt there,” he said. “If you want to be sure, you have to pasteurize it.”

Innovating anti-microbial solutions
Businesses in the food and drink industry must maintain ample vigilance in ensuring that their products are safe and free of harmful pathogens. Alongside NPD, development in anti-microbial solutions is equally essential in R&D. Examples of such advancements include Naturex’s breakthrough in taste-free antimicrobial ingredients for the prevention of spoilage in meat products. In addition, Arjuna’s natural preservatives line, was found to yield effective antimicrobial activity and shelf-life extension without affecting flavor or mouthfeel. 

FoodIngredientsFirst has reached out to Terra Ingredients for comment on further developments in its MRP procedures.