Method and apparatus for sanitizing perishable goods in enclosed conduits

Abstract

The invention is directed to a method and apparatus for sanitizing perishable goods by mixing the goods with sanitizing fluid for a suitable period of time followed by separating the fluid and substantially neutralizing any residual sanitizing agent left in the goods. In one instance, the sanitizing agent includes ozone and water, therefore separation of the ozonated water advantageously proceeds with a squeezing effect to more adequately remove the ozonated water from the goods.

1 - 20 . (canceled)  
     
     
         21 . A method for separating a liquid from perishable goods, comprising: 
 transferring perishable goods with a rotating auger through a vessel, wherein the auger is enclosed by an interior wall with perforations; and    providing carbon dioxide into the vessel having an exterior wall enclosing the auger and the interior wall, wherein the perforations in the interior wall allow liquid in contact with the perishable goods to exit through the perforations and into space between the interior and exterior walls, and wherein the carbon dioxide displaces oxygen and affects the temperature of the perishable goods.    
     
     
         22 . The method of  claim 21 , wherein the perishable goods are meat.  
     
     
         23 . The method of  claim 21 , wherein the vessel is vertically disposed.  
     
     
         24 . The method of  claim 21 , wherein as the auger rotates, the perishable goods are transferred through a compacting section.  
     
     
         25 . The method of  claim 21 , wherein the vessel is pressurized by the carbon dioxide.  
     
     
         26 . The method of  claim 21 , wherein the auger has a tapered section.  
     
     
         27 . The method of  claim 21 , wherein the vessel has a point of exit for the liquid.  
     
     
         28 . The method of  claim 21 , wherein the carbon dioxide is a liquid or a gas.