Module overview
This course covers the application of chemical engineering principles to food processing. The importance of food quality and safety will be introduced, including regulatory requirements, ISO standards and HACCP. The rate of reactions involved in processes such as fermentation and spoilage will be studied, along with identification of microbiology hazards and calculation of important parameters such as decimal reduction times. The design of unit operations for food preservation and safety including pasteurisation, drying and freezing, and packaging materials will be examined using mass and energy balances and mathematical modelling. The impact of fouling and use of cleaning and CIP systems in food processing will be covered. The role of sustainability in plant design will be discussed, taking into consideration energy, water and pollution reduction measures.