BIOFILMS FORMATION IN HEAT EXCHANGERS AND ITS EFFECTS ON MILK AND DAIRY PRODUCTS

Abstract

The inefficient surface cleaning of equipments such as heat exchangers results in the accumulation of mineral residue that can form fouling which are difficult to remove. It can represent one of the biggest problems for the equipment operation decreasing its efficiency and impairing the functioning which can either involve greater spending on chemicals to be carried out the cleaning process. Moreover, due to the presence of mineral in poorly sanitized surface, there may be the adhesion and biofilm formation by microorganisms which can compromises the quality and the shelf-life of milk and dairy products and can bring risks to the consumer health. This review aims to address relevant aspects of biofilm formation in heat exchangers surfaces, the process of fouling and its negative aspects for the dairy industry.