The technology center for the auxiliary agricultural industry, ATPE-TECNOVA, has developed a system which disinfects both fresh and processed fruit and vegetables. It applies ultraviolet light as a method of disinfection, without the need to employ water in the process.
Ultraviolet C light is a type of relatively energetic radiation with germicidal properties. As such, it is effective against all types of microorganisms (bacteria, virus, fungus, etc.) without the need for water.
The main advantage this technology brings is economic, as it allows reducing the incidence of infections which in turn translates into reduced crop losses. But it also increases the useful life of vegetables, without destroying their vitamins, and at the same time is environmentally friendly. Further, it does not generate waste products.
Given the properties of this type of radiation, together with some experimental applications, ATPE-TECNOVA came up with the idea of creating a practical use for this technology by designing and building equipment which has been adapted to the handling needs of the agricultural sector.
To build the prototype, ATPE-TECNOVA is working with the Ingro Maquinaria company, which builds and creates technology applied to the fruit and vegetable sectors.