UV-C Disinfection Lamps in Cold Stores: Enhancing Food Safety and Reducing Waste

In the food storage and processing industry, maintaining hygiene and extending shelf life are critical for ensuring product quality and minimising waste.

Cold stores, where perishable goods like meat, dairy, and produce are kept at low temperatures, are particularly vulnerable to microbial contamination. Bacteria, moulds, and pathogens can thrive on surfaces and in the air, leading to spoilage, reduced shelf life, and significant financial losses. UV-C disinfection lamps offer a powerful, chemical-free solution to combat these challenges, providing substantial benefits to cold store operators.

Benefits of UV-C disinfection in cold stores

UV-C light, with wavelengths between 200 and 280 nm, is highly effective at inactivating microorganisms by damaging their DNA or RNA, preventing replication. When deployed in cold stores, UV-C lamps deliver multiple advantages:

  1. Reduced spoilage and waste: By eliminating or reducing pathogens such as Listeria, Salmonella, and Aspergillus on surfaces and in the air, UV-C lamps help extend the shelf life of perishable goods. This directly translates to less spoilage, fewer discarded products, and lower operational costs.
  2. Improved food safety: Contamination in cold stores can compromise product safety, leading to costly recalls or health risks. UV-C lamps provide continuous disinfection, reducing microbial loads on meat surfaces and in the surrounding environment, ensuring safer products for consumers.
  3. Cost savings: By minimising spoilage, cold store operators can reduce waste and improve inventory management. Additionally, UV-C disinfection eliminates the need for chemical disinfectants, lowering recurring costs and reducing environmental impact.
  4. Enhanced operational efficiency: UV-C systems are low-maintenance and can operate automatically, requiring minimal intervention. This allows staff to focus on other critical tasks while maintaining a hygienic environment.

IP 65 rated stainless steel UV-C lamps

We offer IP 65 rated stainless steel UV-C lamps specifically designed for cold store environments. These robust, corrosion-resistant lamps are built to withstand the humid, low-temperature conditions typical of cold storage facilities. Key features include:

  • IP 65 rating: Ensures protection against dust and water ingress, making them ideal for the damp, cold conditions of refrigerated environments.
  • Stainless steel construction: Durable and resistant to corrosion, ensuring long-term reliability in harsh settings.
  • Versatile Mounting: Can be easily installed on walls or ceilings to provide comprehensive air and surface disinfection, targeting pathogens on meat surfaces and in the surrounding atmosphere.
  • Effective Contamination Control: Reduces microbial loads in the air and on surfaces, minimising cross-contamination risks and enhancing overall hygiene.

Our UV-C lamps are engineered to deliver consistent, high-intensity UV-C light, ensuring maximum disinfection efficacy without compromising the quality of stored goods. They are particularly effective for meat storage, where surface contamination can lead to rapid spoilage.

Compliance with Artificial Optical Radiation Regulations

Safety is a priority when using UV-C technology. The Control of Artificial Optical Radiation at Work Regulations 2010 in the UK sets strict guidelines to protect workers from harmful exposure to UV radiation.

We provide comprehensive guidance and support to ensure your cold store operations comply with these regulations, safeguarding both your workforce and your investment.

Free webinar covering UV safety in the workplace

Join us for a free UV safety webinar, designed to help organisations understand their legal obligations and ensure safe use of artificial UV light equipment in the workplace.

View dates and register your place