PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, and the Reston, Va.-based owner of the PACK EXPO tradeshows, formed an industry council focused on the advancement of high-pressure processing (HPP). The HPP Council will address questions about HPP technology, develop and formal industry best practices and promote networking among professionals using this processing technology.

"In this age where consumer choice is critical, HPP is a cost-effective method for processors to maintain taste, texture and nutrition while providing the clean label consumers are looking for," says Jeff Williams, president of Avure Technologies, Erlanger, Ky., and a founding member of the council.

"HPP allows food processors to achieve significant benefits in terms of food safety and extended shelf life. The formation of this council will help us take this technology to the next level," adds Jaime Nicolas-Correa, director of Hiperbaric USA, Doral, Fla., one of the founding members of the council.

The HPP Council will officially launch at PMMI’s ProFood Tech, which takes place April 4-6 at Chicago’s McCormick Place.  

"HPP is a critical technology in the food and beverage industry, and it only makes sense to launch this council at the most comprehensive food and beverage show in North America, ProFood Tech," says Justin Segel, chief executive officer of American Pasteurization Co., LLC, Milwaukee, Wis., and a founding member of the council.

"We encourage show attendees to take the time to learn more about the benefits of HPP and get involved in this new council. We look forward to an open exchange of ideas and best practices among industry professionals interested in this technology," says Mark Duffy, chief executive officer of Universal Pasteurization Co. LLC and Universal Cold Storage LLC, Lincoln, Neb., another founding member of the council.

Check out Refrigerated & Frozen Foods' January 2017 issue to learn more about the rise of HPP.