West Liberty Foods LLC announced its plans to install an additional high-pressure processing technology system in its Bolingbrook, Ill. facility. The Hiperbaric 525 High-Pressure Pasteurization System (HPP) will be the fifth unit for the company with installation set for January 2015. This machine will support increased volumes for clean label products, and at capacity will process up to 20 million pounds per year. The increase in capacity is anticipated to create approximately 20 additional jobs.
High-pressure pasteurization is an all-natural, environmentally friendly, cutting-edge technology that uses water under very high hydrostatic pressure to destroy harmful bacteria in foods. This process provides enhanced food safety, a longer shelf life and a reduced dependence on preservatives while maintaining flavor and nutritional value. There is growing consumer demand for clean label food products that are minimally processed with simple ingredient listings and free from chemical additives.