Which of the following thermal processing methods qualify as Ultra-High Temperature (UHT) continuous aseptic sterilization of fluid milk?
Options:
(A) Direct steam injection at $140^\circ\text{C}$ for $3 - 5\text{ seconds}$ followed by flash cooling
(B) Direct steam infusion into a falling milk film vessel at $142^\circ\text{C}$
(C) Indirect tubular heat exchanger heating to $138^\circ\text{C}$ for $4\text{ seconds}$
(D) Batch vat heating to $63^\circ\text{C}$ for $30\text{ minutes}$
Answer Key:
A, B, C
Step-by-Step Solution & Explanation
- A, B, and C are valid commercial UHT processing methods utilizing continuous ultra-short high-temperature treatment ($135 - 150^\circ\text{C}$ for $2 - 5\text{ s}$) coupled with aseptic packaging.
- D describes the Low-Temperature Long-Time (LTLT) pasteurization process, which is not sterilization.