Identifying Effective Sanitizers for In-shell Washes and Conditioning for Pecan Processing

Authors: Bardsley, Cameron; ACUFF, JENNIFER - University Of Arkansas; Shapiro Ilan, David

Submitted to: Pecan Grower
Publication Type: Trade Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 4/1/2025
Publication Date: 4/1/2025
Citation: Bardsley, C.A., Acuff, J., Shapiro Ilan, D.I. 2025. Identifying Effective Sanitizers for In-shell Washes and Conditioning for Pecan Processing. Pecan Grower. 26-33.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: During production and harvest, there is a potential of pecans to become contaminated with foodborne pathogens such as Salmonella and pathogenic E. coli. This contamination can be further spread, or cross-contaminated, to other in-shell pecans if there is not a control strategy in place. Thus, intervention is required during post-harvest pecan processing. Water is often viewed as a vehicle for cross-contamination. Washing and conditioning of pecans is extremely important to remove excess dirt and increase moisture to enhance cracking efficiency to yield more halves. In order to prevent cross-contamination and reduce pathogen load interventions are needed. This article discusses two studies that were performed to evaluate the effectiveness of hot water pasteurization and peracetic acid, lactic acid, and chlorine-based sanitizers on reducing the level of foodborne pathogens and preventing cross-contamination. -Hot water pasteurization techniques are the most effective at reducing pathogen contamination on the surface of in-shell pecans. If hot water techniques are not feasible in your operation, then peracetic acid, lactic acid, and chlorine-based sanitizers are good options during conditioning and washing to prevent cross-contamination of foodborne pathogens. While the results of both studies show the effectiveness of various chemical sanitizers at reducing foodborne pathogen levels on the surface of in-shell pecans and preventing cross-contamination, it is important to evaluate what sanitizer is ideal for your operation. Aspects such as sanitizer cost, employee handling and safety, effective dose, maintaining effective concentrations, and corrosion of equipment should all be considered when choosing a sanitizer for washing and conditioning.