surface method that pasteurizes or sterilizes low hydration particulate foods and system for pasteurizing or sterilizing foods

摘要

The invention relates to a method of and system for surface pasteurizing or sterilizing low-moisture particulate foods, such as nuts, oats, and spices, wherein the foods are pre-heated, pasteurized or sterilized in a gas, optionally dried, and cooled. The gas pasteurizing or sterilizing the foods contains water vapour and one or more further gasses, preferably air.